2012 Jacques Prieur, Echezeaux Grand Cru 1x75cl

Vinous – 93+

(these vines in Les Champs Traversins were harvested on October 2, with 13% natural alcohol, according to winemaker Nadine Gublin): Deep red-ruby. Very deep but unforthcoming nose hints at black raspberry, violet and minerals, with complicating torrefaction notes of chocolate and coffee. Boasts outstanding thickness without weight but shows a distinctly austere menthol quality and a long, slowly mounting finish indicating the balance to age. This may have been harvested late, but the black fruit, earth and spice qualities give this wine terrific drinkability. Finishes with very suave, fine-grained tannins. With its velour-like texture and superb intensity, I give this wine the edge over the Chambertin. [Stephen Tanzer, 03/01/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2027-2040

Burghound – 90-93

A highly spiced nose of very ripe aromas of cassis, black cherry and sandalwood leads to lavishly rich middle weight plus flavors that brim with buckets of dry extract that completely coat the palate as well as buffers the firm tannic spine on the impressively long finish. This is a highly seductive effort that isn’t presently as complex as the Clos de Vougeot. This will most please those who enjoy opulent burgs that can be enjoyed young though note that there is plenty of aging potential here. [15/04/2014]