The 2012 Chambolle-Musigny is a great introduction to the year. Dark cherries, plums and spices jump from the glass in a sensual, expressive Chambolle with tons of near-term appeal. Violets, rose petals and spices all flesh out on the radiant, expressive finish. The 2012 is a bit richer and broader than is normally the case, but there is plenty of vibrancy to balance the intensity of the fruit.

Medium red. Slightly liqueur-like aromas of cherry, raspberry and spices. Supple, sweet and rather open-knit, but with no shortage of energy. Red fruit and spice flavors are quite sensual today but should gain in refinement with bottle aging. Finishes with good menthol reserve and a fine dustng of tannins.

Gorgeously fragrant. Sweetly scented red fruit with the merest hint of vanilla sweetness. Then dry and all wound up on the palate, the perfume held captive for now by the structure, with each sip leaving you wanting the next. The persistence and balance promise a long future, much longer than many village wines in this vintage. (JH)