Wine Spectator (96)

Remarkably pure, sleek and refined, with a faint chalk thread perfectly embedded in the core of red currant, cherry and damson plum fruit. Very sleek, with refined tannins and impressive length, this is balanced to a T. A wine of distinction that seems destined to improve as the remaining limestone portions of the vineyard are replanted. This is also the first vintage that includes the portions from the former Magdelaine estate. Tasted non-blind. Score range: 93-96 -JM

Wine Advocate (96)

The smallest of the Perse estates, this tiny property situated on pure limestone produces a wine made from a blend of 90% Merlot and the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the superstars of this vintage, the 2012 is opaque purple and exhibits tremendous concentration and richness, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and a layered texture that builds incrementally without any heaviness or cloying characteristics. This is stunning, great, old-style, yet progressively made Bordeaux to drink over the next 25-30 years. The alcohol level is 14.3%.

Vinous (92-94)

The 2012 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Champeaux is laced with tobacco, earthiness, smoke and dark red fruit. The Champeaux is intense and a bit sauvage, with tons of personality. There is nothing subtle here. A virile, imposing wine, the Champeaux is endowed with considerable power and structure, both of which suggest it will need time to fully come together.

Vinous (95-97)

Rose petals, violets, anise and sweet red cherries lift from the glass in Dugat-Py's 2012 Mazis-Chambertin. The contours are refined, silky and polished throughout. This is a fabulous showing from a wine that is vibrant, crystalline and utterly breathtaking. Although the Mazis is quite floral and intensely aromatic, it also has plenty of depth and mid-palate pliancy.

Vinous (94)

The 2012 Chablis Les Clos is totally intriguing. Initially a bit reticent, the Clos only blossoms on the mid-palate and finish, where the wine's texture and breadth are most apparent. Silky, perfumed and polished throughout, the 2012 impresses for its fabulous balance and faithful expression of this great site.

Immerse yourself in the regality of the Bizot Echezeaux Grand Cru 2012; a premium red that encapsulates the rich viticulture history of the Echezeaux Grand Cru vineyard in Burgundy, France. Renowned vintner Jean-Yves Bizot, a stickler for tradition, employs biodynamic methods ensuring respectful cultivation of the vineyard's characterful old vines. The purity of the grape is paramount; interventions are minimal and no pesticides touch the sanctity of the vines.

The Bizot Echezeaux Grand Cru 2012 offers a harmonious blend of robust aromas, deep black fruit notes, laced with a truffle-infused earthy undertone. A vinous masterpiece veiled in regal burgundy hues, it evolves steadily in the glass, making each sip an unfolding narrative. The finale is a crescendo of integrated tannins, leaving a lingering presence on the palate. Decant with reverence and this sublime wine becomes a profound conversation, making a powerful statement in any fine wine collection.

The Bizot Echezeaux Grand Cru 2012 is the epitome of a master-class in Burgundy winemaking. Presented by the esteemed Domaine Jean-Yves Bizot, a producer revered for its devotion to organic practices and biodynamic viticulture in Vosne-Romanée. This exquisite vintage emanates from east-facing vineyards perched atop rich limestone soils, which imbue the wine with an incomparable mineral complexity.

This Pinot Noir effortlessly marries power with elegance, boasting an opulent, velvety palate. Matured in seasoned oak barrels, it exhibits sumptuous notes of blackberry, plum, and a hint of earthy truffle, all underscored by a tantalisingly long finish. It's a complex yet harmonious assembly of layered flavours and delicate tannins. An indisputable testament to the calibre of the Echezeaux Grand Cru slope.

Embodying the vibrancy of Burgundy terroir with quiet confidence, the Bizot Echezeaux Grand Cru 2012 is an exceptional wine perfect for serious collectors or those seeking the finest expressions of Pinot Noir.

Falstaff (98)

An immediate nuttiness of grilled hazelnut along with freshly cut red apple peel, an edge of white pepper and melted candlewax mark the nose – very unusual. With air, this slowly verges onto baked skin of plum. That nuttiness is also apparent on the palate with a real phenolic and textural element, there is much density, almost a chewiness. Very fine acidity runs through this wine, expressing the customary Bollinger creaminess, underlined by finest foam, revealing a lovely hint of pithy bitterness, more pepper and nuances of ripeness expressed by baking spice. A most gastronomic Champagne and only at the beginning of a long trajectory.

Falstaff (98)

An immediate nuttiness of grilled hazelnut along with freshly cut red apple peel, an edge of white pepper and melted candlewax mark the nose – very unusual. With air, this slowly verges onto baked skin of plum. That nuttiness is also apparent on the palate with a real phenolic and textural element, there is much density, almost a chewiness. Very fine acidity runs through this wine, expressing the customary Bollinger creaminess, underlined by finest foam, revealing a lovely hint of pithy bitterness, more pepper and nuances of ripeness expressed by baking spice. A most gastronomic Champagne and only at the beginning of a long trajectory.

Wine Spectator (97)

This goes from zero to 60 right out of the gate, with an intense spine of acidity driving tightly meshed flavors of crushed black currant, ground coffee, candied grapefruit peel and toasted almond. The profile expands on the palate, carried by the fine, raw silk–like mousse. Richly aromatic and expressive from start to lasting, spiced finish. Disgorged July 2019. Drink now through 2037. 850 cases imported.

Essi Avallen MW (96-98)

At this point of youthfulness the pink colour is rather rich and bright. Lovely clean and fruit-forward nose with fresh red berry aromas mixing with spice and orange notes. Quite shyly evolved with much more to surface on the complexity front. Today there is attractive exuberant fruitiness and perfect creamy freshness. Promising palate with power and persistence where an overall harmony enhances the feeling of sophistication.

Vinous (95)

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.

Wine Advocate (95)

Tasted blind at the Burgundy 2012 tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Chevalier Montrachet la Cabotte Grand Cru from Bouchard Père & Fils has a slightly more exotic bouquet within this flight with touches of white chocolate and almond originating from the more generous and conspicuous use of new oak. It needs time to fully integrated. The palate is concentrated and lightly honeyed, the acidity nicely judged but there is a nagging feeling that it was picked a little too late, reminiscent of some of those 2006s on the finish that is missing some delineation. Returning to the glass it actually becomes more refined and elegant, with a saline tang on the finish. This must represent one of Bouchard's finest contributions to the vintage.

Vinous (92-94)

(from estate vines planted in 1978 and 1956; a blend of the top and bottom of the cru): Bright, dark red. Pungent stony minerality and black cherry on the rather cool nose. Then dense, sappy and sweet, showing a very fine-grained texture and terrific inner-mouth lift. This pliant, deep wine really saturates the palate on the long aftertaste, with the tannins thoroughly buffered by fruit. Just four barrels produced, vs. a permitted ten.

Vinous (91-93)

(estate; from En Orveaux, situated in the cooler Combe d'Orveaux): Good deep red. Wild dark fruits and game on the nose, complicated by licorice, bitter chocolate and herbs, along with a black olive quality. Sweet, pliant and fine-grained but nicely energetic too. Finishes with rather soft, harmonious tannins and lovely building length.

Vinous (93)

Medium red, a bit pale at the rim. Soil-inflected aromas of red fruits, potpourri spices, minerals, flowers and truffle. Plush, rich and fine-grained, showing terrific volume and breadth and a restrained sweetness to the flavors of red fruits, smoke and earth. This seamless, stylish wine boasts strong soil tones and an inviting, very smooth finish. A beauty--and perhaps deceptively accessible today.

Wine Advocate (94)

A luxury cuvée from this tiny, 15-acre vineyard in the heart of Léognan owned by the Garcin family, the final blend on the 2012 Garcin is 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot. A big, full-throttle, full-bodied, impressive Pessac-Leognan, with notes of charcoal fires, burning embers, blueberry and blackberry fruit, this full-bodied, rich, supple wine is very impressive, beautifully textured and quite pure and long. This is a star of the vintage and certainly one of the best Pessac-Léognans. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.

Wine Advocate (94)

A dense ruby/purple color is followed by notes of black raspberries, blueberries, crushed rocks and spring flowers. This medium to full-bodied, well-endowed, authoritative Canon reveals some serious tannin in the finish, so 4-5 years of cellaring will be needed after bottling. It should last 15-20 years.

Indulge in the bold elegance of Canon Chaigneau 2012, an exquisite Bordeaux Supérieur hailing from the renowned Lalande de Pomerol region in France. Crafted by Nathalie and Lionel Chaigneau, this vintage is a testament to their meticulous commitment to quality, derived entirely from 35-year-old Merlot vines. Canon Chaigneau 2012 exhibits an enticing deep ruby hue, with delightfully balanced notes of ripe black fruit, woody undertones, and a whisper of vanilla.

Meticulously aged in French oak barrels, enriching the wine's complexity and offering a seductively smooth finish, Canon Chaigneau 2012 is a true vinous expression of its terroir. Celebrated by fine wine connoisseurs globally, this elegant wine is perfect for immediate enjoyment or further maturing up to a decade. A perfect addition to any discerning wine collection, Canon Chaigneau 2012 brings to life the artistry and sophistication that is characteristic of the world-class viticulture of Bordeaux.

James Suckling (92)

This red shows some cassis, blueberries and floral notes on the nose. Some tar, too. Medium to full body, juicy tannins and a fruity finish. Enticing wine. Drink now or hold.

Immerse yourself in the sensory delight that is the Castagnier Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses 2012. This illustrious wine, crafted in the heart of France's Burgundy region, boasts rich layers of complexity. Hailing from the esteemed Domaine Jacques-Frédéric Mugnier, it tells a tale of dedication to terroir and traditional winemaking methods. The harvest of Pinot Noir grapes is meticulously orchestrated to preserve the dense flavour and velvety mouthfeel.

The Castagnier Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses 2012 embodies subtlety, finesse, and elegance. Its enchanting nose unveils notes of ripe berries and vibrant floral essences, underpinned by a distinctive mineral streak. On the palate, one can anticipate a sublime sequence of luscious fruit and silky tannins. A masterstroke of winemaking wizardry, this luxurious red provides a long and compelling finish. Ideal as a cellaring wine, its potential for ageing is remarkable, promising continued evolution and an enhanced drinking experience.

Vinous (90-93)

(Tremblay took over these 15-year-old vines in 2009; not destined for the U.S. market): Dark red. Sappy nose combines minerals, flowers and earth; I would have picked it blind as Vosne-Romanee. Then juicy and spicy on the palate, offering black raspberry and brown spice flavors lifted by minerals. Nice density without weight here, and very bright on the long, juicy finish. Sexy juice.

Vinous (93-95)

The 2012 Vosne-Romanée Les Rouge du Dessus is arguably the hidden jewel in Cecile Tremblay's lineup. Layers of deeply spiced dark fruit jump from the glass in a wine of extraordinary purity. The brush strokes are broad in a wine with massive tannins and equally rich fruit. All the 2012 needs is time. Today it is embryonic, but dazzling all the same. The 2012 was vinified with 70% whole clusters.

Vinous (93)

The 2012 Blanc de Noirs Côte de Bechalin La Parcelle is bright, precise and beautifully lifted. Orchard fruit, mint, white pepper and floral notes lend brightness. This is a decidedly taut, vibrant Blanc de Noirs, especially considering the vintage. Gracious, medium in body and supremely inviting, the Côte de Bechalin is another stellar wine in this set of new releases. No dosage. Disgorged: April, 2019.

The CG Paris Chiroubles Vieilles Vignes 2012 is a distinguished vintage, hailing from the famed vineyards of Chiroubles in the Beaujolais region of France. Produced by iconic winemaker, CG Paris, this wine is a jewel of the vineyard's distinguished heritage. This exceptional wine opens with a bouquet of red berries accented with a distinct, mineral undertone - an ode to the granite-rich soil in which it was cultivated.

Matured in French oak casks for 12 months, the wine flaunts a structured, well-rounded body, with tantalising flavours of ripe red cherries and a hint of rustic earthiness, providing a delightful finis. This vintage's velvety tannin structure and vibrant acidity make it a perfect accompaniment to both red meat dishes and strong cheeses. Indulge in the allure of French viticulture with the perfection that is the CG Paris Chiroubles Vieilles Vignes 2012, a testament to centuries of winemaking expertise.

Distinguished in the illustrious Beaujolais region of France, the CG Paris Chiroubles Vieilles Vignes 2012 is an exquisite example of expert winemaking. With the age-old vines planted on steep, granitic slopes, this wine captures the essence of its hallowed terroir. The winemaking approach, under the leviathan of Charles Gaget, adheres strictly to the traditional Beaujolais method, with semi-carbonic maceration yielding an eloquent expression of the Gamay grape.

This vintage is a testament to its remarkable year, showcasing fruit-forward complexity harmonised with vibrant acidity. The nose swoons with scents of black cherry and violets while the lush palate intrigues with vibrant raspberry and earthy undertones. A wine that embodies finesse and elegance, the CG Paris Chiroubles Vieilles Vignes 2012 is a choice worthy of the discerning connoisseur. Clearly, a testament to the exceptional potential of the Cheroubles cru, and a maharishi in the illustrious lineage of CG Paris offerings.

Wine Advocate (93)

One can’t say enough about the amazing job that Alain Vauthier and his daughter have done at this historic property on the decomposed limestone slopes of St.-Emilion. About half of their production goes into the second wine, Chapelle D’Ausone, which gives you an indication of the compulsive perfectionist attitude of the Vauthiers. The 2012 Chapelle D’Ausone has a dense ruby/purple color and is rich, broad and expansive, with notes of plum, blueberry and black raspberry fruit, powdered chalk and flowers. The wine is medium to full-bodied, beautifully pure and long and rich. This is better than many of the vintages of Ausone in the 1940s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s, which says a lot about what Vauthier has achieved. Drink it over the next 20-25 years.

Vinous (92)

Vivid ruby. Highly aromatic cherry and red berry scents are complicated by licorice, Indian spices and cola. Deeply concentrated dark fruit flavors show a suave blend of sweet and tangy, with a mineral nuance adding lift. Gains weight and sweetness on the clinging finish, which features a cherry-cola quality and fine-grained tannins that come on late.