The 2012 Clos de La Roche is explosive from the very first taste. Dark fruit, smoke, tobacco, licorice and incense all take shape in the glass. At times wild and exotic, the 2012 is rich and deep, with huge tannins and imposing structure. Over time, though, the wine becomes more delicate and perfumed. Dried rose petals, mint and raspberries linger on the sweet, expressive finish. The 2012 was fermented with 100% whole clusters. As beautiful as the 2012 is, today, it doesn't look like a wine that will age for many decades, as is the norm here. Time will tell, though, and the 2012 is at the beginning of what promises to be many years of exceptional drinking before longevity is even an issue

Antonio Galloni - Vinous Media (94)