2012 Chambertin Grand Cru Clos de Bèze Pierre Gélin

(from two parcels of vines measuring .65 ha, one with approximately 40 years of age and the other with a venerable 100 years of age; however, there is now only .31 ha in production as the older vines were ripped up). This is easily the most complex wine in the range with its exuberantly spicy nose that exhibits notes of Asian tea, red and black currant, earth, floral hints and a hint of sandalwood. There is good power to the notably finer larger-bodied flavors that display much more minerality on the impressively long and intense finale. As fans of the domaine know, the Gelin Bèze is never an especially big or powerful example of the appellation but it is balanced, harmonious and always seems to age extremely well. To this end the 2012 version should do the same.

The aromas are reticent here, but this delivers on the palate, with intense flavors of rose, strawberry, cherry, licorice, spice and mineral. Complex and elegant, with superb definition and a lingering aftertaste. Best from 2019 through 2035. 66 cases imported.