2012 Chambertin Clos de Beze
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind at the annual "Burgfest" tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru from Bouchard Père et Fils has an earthy, rather subdued nose that lacks the complexity and the energy displayed by Rousseau's Clos-de-Bèze 2012. There is something a little dour here. The palate is reduced on the entry although there seems to be decent substance underneath. Chewy and rustic, this needs to nurture more finesse and precision, though it would not surprise me if time smooths out the edges. Dumb phase? Quite possibly.
Critic scores
Average Score
Allen Meadows, Burghound
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Deep, bright red. Knockout vibrant nose combines purple and red berries, crushed stone, violet and animal fur. Lush, thick and deep but with terrific chalky energy animating the middle palate. Conveys striking depth to its red fruit and floral flavors, with the 45% new oak practically invisible today. Finishes with huge but round, noble tannins and outstanding lingering sweetness. In a more opulent style than the potentially great 2013, and probably for drinking before that wine.
Complex and inviting aroma of spicy cherry and the freshness of slight stalkiness. Tight and lively and promising on the palate, with a lift that many of the Bouchard reds seem to lack in this vintage. On the leaner side but elegant and fresh.
Complex and inviting aroma of spicy cherry and the freshness of slight stalkiness. Tight and lively and promising on the palate, with a lift that many of the Bouchard reds seem to lack in this vintage. On the leaner side but elegant and fresh. (JH)
About the producer
Bouchard Père & Fils is one of Burgundy’s oldest and most established wine producers. Founded in 1731 by Michel Bouchard, it is the largest vineyard owner in the Côte d’Or with 130 hectares of vines.