The 2012 Chapelle-Chambertin Grand Cru is tighter and more laconic on the nose compared to the Griotte, which is usual. With a little encouragement there is just a suggestion of brine, something from the deep dark sea. The palate is fresh and vibrant right from the start with fine tannins, very smooth in the mouth with impressive density and weight. This is a vin de garde for sure, with a lovely touch of white pepper lingering on the aftertaste. (NM) (12/2013)

Deep ruby color. A very ripe yet wonderfully fresh and expressive nose features notes of cassis, plum, black cherry and a broad array of spice nuances. There is a highly seductive mouth feel to the velvet-textured, powerful and robust big-bodied flavors that display plenty of minerality and drive on the exceptionally persistent finish. It's relatively rare that Ponsot's Chapelle surpasses his Griotte but in 2012 it appears to have just a bit more depth of material. We will of course see in time but this certainly appears very promising. (1/2014)