A drop-dead gorgeous beauty, the 2012 Richebourg takes hold of all the senses with a kaleidoscope of aromas and flavors that is truly breathtaking. This is a gracious Richebourg that adds considerable finesse to all of the structure one expects to find. Violets, cloves, new leather and black fruit are all supported by veins of cool, incisive minerality. The flavors are intense and resonant, with tons of mineral drive and pure energy. What a magnificent wine this is. Liger-Belair vinified the Richebourg with fully destemmed fruit.

(100% destemmed): Good bright, dark red. Wild aromas of black raspberry, game and leather. Creamy-sweet on entry, then youthfully imploded in the middle, showing outstanding intensity and pungent minerality but totally unevolved today (Liger-Belair described it as a fetus). Combines power and elegance, and finishes with palate-staining perfume. Should be a great vin de garde but will probably require at least a decade in the cellar even to begin to approach its peak.