(racked in February and still in barrel; 50% vendange entier; 10% new oak): Palish cherry-red. Aromas of strawberry, crushed stone and underbrush are accented by exotic spices. Juicy, tight and penetrating; on the lean side today but precise and minerally. More a wine of finish than the Marechaudes, which is more impressive on entry. Crushed stone and salty mineral notes on the long, subtle back end.

The 2012 Corton-Bressandes Grand Cru does not quite match up to the delightful 2012 Pernand-Vergelesses on the nose, as if cowed by the over-performing premier cru! The palate is medium-bodied with a crisp, chalky entry – tart red cherry fruit, strawberry and a dash of spice toward the finish that compensates for the recalcitrant nose. Give this a year or two in bottle to sort itself out. Importers: David Bowler Wine www.bowlerwine.com, Ideal Wine & Spirits www.idealwine.us and Beaune Imports, www.beauneimports.com

Violets, blackcurrant, drying tannin. Sharp finish. Spiky not smooth. (RH)