Domaine du Clos des Lambrays, Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru 2012 6x75cl

93-96 Points, Stephen Tanzer, Vinous (100% vendange entier; 50% new oak): Good deep red. Captivating aromas of black fruits, olive, medicinal herbs, licorice and flowers; if this isn't classic Clos des Lambrays, it certainly delivers grand cru complexity. At once silky and vibrant, with the black fruit, medicinal herb and brown spice flavors enlivened by interested minerality. On second thought, this one contains most of the classic Clos des Lambrays food groups. Impeccably balanced, spicy and very long on the aftertaste. And built for the long haul.Review Date: 01 Jan 14

We have championed Clos des Lambrays for some years, observing the transformation since the estate was bought by Bernard Arnault in 2014. There is clear intent to fully express the unique style and immense quality possible in this historic Grand Cru Clos. Under the considered and focused leadership of head winemaker Jacques Devauges, the vineyard was first converted to organic and subsequently to biodynamic viticulture. In addition, the winery has been completely rebuilt to facilitate a far more sensitive and parcellated winemaking. The Clos des Lambrays itself is characterised by differing soils and aspects in a vineyard that varies in orientation, due to its undulating nature, in a way few other vineyards in Burgundy do. This allows for a diversity and complexity that Jacques aims to harness by dividing the Clos into eleven distinct parcels. Each of these parcels is individually managed and the fruit is vinified and aged separately. It is only prior to bottling that the separate elements are re-united to make a whole that is undeniably greater than the sum of its parts. This parcellaire approach has been further facilitated by the new cellar that was completed in time for the 2022 harvest. The 2022 vintage was the first to benefit fully from a winery that has been built to ensure that the wine is never pumped but only ever moved by gravity. Purity and precision are evident in the wines.