Chambolle Musigny Amoureuses, Domaine Robert Groffier 2012

Tasted blind at the annual "Burgfest" tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru les Amoureuses from Domaine Robert Groffier was perhaps the biggest, and I should add, pleasant surprise of this marathon tasting. Whereas once I felt the wines could be over-extracted and too alcoholic, here was a wine that exuded elegance, finesse and terroir. It has a well-defined bouquet, raspberry and black berry fruit intermingling with black truffle and sous-bois scents. The palate is very "serious" on the entry, saline on the entry with touches of bitter cherry, brambly black fruit and a little tar. There is certainly very fine structure here and superb balance, although patience will be needed. What a fabulous example of the vintage. Bravo Nicolas Groffier!

(vinified with 25% whole clusters): Deep, bright ruby-red. Withdrawn nose hints at black raspberry, licorice and chocolatey reduction, along with a hint of damp earth. Sweet and very ripe; a bit thick and heavy for Amoureuses but with solid framing acidity. Finishes with a palate-staining wave of fruit but a slightly roasted character.