Despite hearing several estate owners moaning about low yields and hailstorms, the Côtes de Nuits actually had a pretty good harvest and 2012 looks like following in the footsteps of 2009/2010.
Despite the losses from your usually “disease” suspects the “sensitive” subject of yields leads us to the conclusion that yields weren’t down that much. And thanks to a September that gave generous amounts of sun (at least until the 20-25th) the best vineyards (“climats”) gave excellent quality grapes.
There is however, a considerable difference in quality between most “village” appellations and the 1er and Grand Crus. The latter showing mature black fruits (cherry & blackcurrant) and flowers similar to 2010, but with less acidity and more body. There is concentrated matter but nothing heavy…great balance.
From my tasting, I believe the Pinots have a very rich body, without being rustic. They have harmony and great tannins as well as ripe fruit. Although their is acidity, it doesn’t dominate. I believe 2012 will be good to cellar for a few years.
Best notes
Marsannay:
Doing very well, thanks to some top winemakers and an “organic” attitude that’s paying off.
Bruno Clair – Marsannay village Les Grasse Têtes
Philippe Naddef – Marsannay village Les Genelières
Gevrey Chambertin:
Excellent vintage, mainly thanks to the super 1er & Grand Crus.
Stéphane Magnien – Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru
David Duband – Chambertin Grand Cru
Domaine Heresztyn-Mazzini – 1er Cru les Champonnets
Vincent et Denis Berthaut – village Clos des Chezeaux
Chambolle-Musigny, Morey Saint Denis, Vougeot:
A classic vintage, without it being outstanding, except for the higher appellations, which could go above 2009!!
Domaine David Duband – Clos de la Roche
Maison Alex Gambal – Chambolle-Musigny 1er cru Les Charmes
Domaine Amiot-Servelle – Chambolle Musigny 1er cru “Derrière la Grange”
Maison Bouchard Père et Fils – Bonnes Mares Grand Cru
Domaine Faiveley – Chambolle Musigny 1er cru “Aux Beaux Bruns”
Domaine de la Pousse d’Or – Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru “Groseilles” et “Clos de la Roche” grand cru.
Stéphane Magnien – Morey-Saint-Denis 1er cru “Aux Petites Noix” et “Les Faconnières”
Nuits -Saint-Georges, Vosne Romanée
Undoubtably the “winning” village. A great harvest with small yields, yet healthy and mature that will lead to concentrated wines with great balance.
Michel Noellat – NSG 1er cru Les Boudots
Lucien Boillot NSG 1er cru Les Pruliers
Henri Gouges NSG 1er cru les Vaucrains
Georges Noellat Grands Echezeaux grand cru
Domaine Confuron-Gindre Echezeaux grand cru
Maison Bouchard Père et Fils – Echezeaux grand cru
Georges Mugneret-Giboourg 1er cru les Vignes Rondes
Domaine des Perdrix NSG 1er cru Terres Blanches
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