2012 Domaine Trapet Pere et Fils Chapelle Chambertin G.Cru

Vinous 96: The Chapelle Chambertin Grand Cru boasts stunning depth and richness. Trapet used 70% whole clusters, all of which are impeccably balanced and integrated. Dark red cherry, plum, smoke, licorice and savory herbs are some of the many notes that shape the voluptuous finish. The balance of fruit, acidity and structure is compelling, but the Chapelle is a wine for the cellar, so patience is going to be a virtue.

Burghound 94: Here too there is ample floral character adding a sense of refinement to the ultra-fresh, well-layered and very pretty aromas that blend notes of earth and game with spice and a mix of both red and dark berry fruit scents. The mouth feel is at once velvety yet mineral-inflected with excellent size, weight and punch to the broad-shouldered flavors that possess just a bit more complexity on the palate staining and impressively persistent finish. This is a firmly structured and powerful but well-balanced and graceful Chapelle that doesn't lack for verve.

Wine Advocate 96: The 2012 Chapelle-Chambertin Grand Cru comes from one 0.65-hectare parcel from vines planted in 1938 planted by Louis Trapet, the other planted in 1965. It has a stony, earthy, introspective bouquet that is extremely defined, but will patently require several years in bottle. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp, tensile tannins with piercing acidity and a riveting chalky texture that electrifies the senses. This is very natural, very terroir driven – intellectual as much as a sensory proposition.