2012 Gevrey Chambertin Cuvee Alexandrine

The 2012 Gevrey-Chambertin Cuvee Alexandrine debuted in 2005 and is a special selection that Alexandrine makes from millerande berries. Just four barrels are produced, two of which are new. The nose is initially reticent, but it opens or perhaps more accurately explodes after 30 seconds with raspberry preserve, dark cherries and sous-bois aromas. The palate has a silky smooth entry lent volume and presence by the oak that is neatly entwined with the wood. It builds nicely in the mouth with just a hint of tobacco infusing the finish that is persistent and satisfying. This is well worth seeking out. I encountered Alexandrine Roy’s wines at their UK importer’s tasting in London – one of those pleasant discoveries that never fail to brighten up the day. She is the 4th generation of the Roy family to farm their holdings that mostly cluster around Gevrey-Chambertin and she seems to be virtually a one-(wo)man band doing everything herself at the domaine. This is a small domaine of around four hectares, the fruit entirely de-stemmed and fermented with natural yeasts. Her quintet of 2012s were all very commendable, especially the excellent “Clos Prieur” and Cuvee Alexandrine”. We need more quality Gevrey growers as we cannot all afford the likes of Rousseau or Dugat-Py, so this was a welcome find. Importer: no know US importer but available through OW Loeb in the UK.