2012 Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet

Here there is more obvious floral and citrus influence to the white orchard fruit suffused nose that introduces cool and pure middle weight flavors that display plenty of underlying tension as well as fine detail on the restrained and markedly dry finish that is moderately austere. This beautifully balanced effort is notably more structured than the average Puligny villages in 2012 and will require a minimum of 3 to 4 years of cellar time before it's ready for prime time.

Author: Allen Meadows

Subtle aromas and flavors of peach, menthol and mint. Serious and pure if a bit youthfully streamlined. Best today on the dry, rich, rather backward finish, which displays good minerality for village wine. (Incidentally, Leflaive's 2012 Bourgogne Blanc, which I tasted from tank just before it was bottled, is particularly chewy, sweet and complex for its appellation.)

Author: Stephen Tanzer

Issue: September/October 2014