2012 Pommard 1. Cru Les Rugiens Henri Boillot

Plum, black cherry, clove and menthol notes inform the 2012 Pommard Rugiens. Broad and ample on the palate, the Rugiens is also surprisingly dark in this vintage. Even with all of the intensity though, all of the elements remain nicely balanced throughout. Lovely aromatic high notes keep things from tilting towards excess heaviness. The tannins are also a bit more present here than they are in some of the other wines, giving the Rugiens energy, drive and a sense of proportion. 2018 - 2032

(from equally sized parcels in both Rugiens Hauts and Bas that measure ~1 ha). This is a notable step up in both aromatic elegance and complexity with its layered nose of plum, anise, violet and spice nuances. There is a wonderfully intense and refined mouth feel to the broad-shouldered and punchy medium weight flavors that are built on a base of firm minerality. I very much like the depth and length here and while there is still enough unabsorbed wood to notice on the beautifully persistent finish it should be completely integrated with a few years of bottle age. Good stuff. 2022+

Bright medium red. Fresher and less roasted than the Chevrets, showing lovely mineral lift to the complex aromas of red cherry, iron, underbrush and spices; the Boillots benefited from the energy provided by the portion of their vines that are located in Rugiens du Haut. A sappy expression of soil on the palate, with red fruit, wild herb and white pepper flavors lifted and carried by a menthol quality. Finishes sappy and fresh, with firm tannins and strong soil character. A terrific showing, but built to age. - Stephen Tanzer