2012 Le Montrachet
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Tasting notes
From a vintage with tiny yields that produced just about four barrels of wine, the 2012 Montrachet possesses explosive energy, density and pure power. Readers lucky enough to own the 2012 need to be exceedingly patient, as it is embryonic nowhere near ready to drink. Tasted at the DRC Montrachet charity event in New York.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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A bit subdued at first, the 2012 Montrachet needs a little time in the glass before its explosive personality bursts forward. Dense, rich and exotic to the core, the 2012 is one of the more flamboyant Montrachets in recent memory, even though there was no botrytis that year, so the 2012 retains a good sense of freshness as well. There is a real sense of phenolic intensity in the 2012 that is impossible to miss, while the wine's richness is deftly balanced by enough acidity to keep things lively for such a big wine. The low yields of the vintage produced a concentrated, opulent Montrachet that will drink well for decades. Sadly, two hail storms and the severe selection that followed took with it about half of the normal production.
Waves of tropical-inflected fruit, lemon oil, white flowers, mint, honey and popcorn take center stage in the 2012 Montrachet. Although there was no botrytis that year, the 2012 is all about power, opulence and voluptuousness. Compelling in its interplay of flavors and textures, the 2012 Montrachet is simply dazzling. I imagine the 2012 will thrill those lucky enough to own it for several decades. DRC's Montrachet remains one of the most pure, viscerally thrilling wines in Burgundy.
About the producer
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti or simply “DRC” is without doubt the most famous domaine in Burgundy and one of the most famous producers on earth. The Grand Cru vineyard from which it takes its name produces the world’s most expensive wine by a long margin.