Richebourg, Domaine Hudelot-Noellat 2012

**Note: from vines that abut those of the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Richebourg proper** Though this is a bit more deeply pitched the nose is actually compositionally similar to that of the Romanée St. Vivant. I love the sense of underlying tension to the mineral-driven, taut and naturally muscular flavors that are shaped by impressively fine-grained tannins before culminating in a gorgeously long, intense and palate staining finish. This firmly structured, explosive and beautifully well-balanced effort should be fantastic in time.

The 2012 Richebourg Grand Cru, which comes from a 0.28-hectare parcel planted in 1950, this year contains 20% whole bunches and the domaine were graced with five barrels. It has a very refined and distinctly aristocratic bouquet adorned with beautifully defined black and red fruits, perhaps leaning towards the former with aeration. Touches of seaweed and tilled earth emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins. It does not have the charm of the RSV at the moment, but there is beguiling structure and symmetry with a long mineral laden finish. Superb.

**Note: from vines that abut those of the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Richebourg proper** Here too the nose is sufficiently reduced to block a reasonable assessment. I love the sense of underlying tension to the mineral-driven, taut and naturally muscular flavors that, like the Romanée St. Vivant, are shaped by impressively fine-grained tannins before culminating in a gorgeously long, intense and palate staining finish. This should be fantastic in time.