Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Grands Echezeaux Grand Cru 2012

The 2012 Grands-Échézeaux is quite dark and somber in 2012. Powerful tannins give the Grands-Échézeaux much of its verticality and pure power. Dark cherry, plum, spices and a host of mentholated, balsamic notes are woven throughout. The 2012 is built for the long haul, that much is obvious. I wouldn't plan on opening a bottle any time soon. I very much like the wine's sense of energy.

The 2012 Grands Echézeaux was picked on September 22, 24 and 25, at 27 hectoliters per hectare. Compared to the Echézeaux the nose is more demure, perhaps more refined, does not feel the urge to put it all out as it were. Reticent is the word - yet the precision and delineation is undeniable. The palate is medium-bodied with very supple tannin, here a mixture of red and black fruit, a little broodier and more introspective than its cousin but with greater persistence in the mouth. It unfurls on the finish: hints of dry tobacco and cedar, leaving you with the impression of a masculine Grands Echézeaux, one built for the long haul. 987 cases produced.