2012 Clos de la Roche
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind at the annual "Burgfest" tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru from Maison Roche de Bellene has a crisp, minerally bouquet with redcurrant and blackcurrant aromas, the latter becoming stronger with aeration, and underlying tertiary note developing in the glass and imparting more Clos de la Roche character. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red fruit, lightly spiced with a grainy texture, a little savory towards the finish that needs a little more substance. Returning after several minutes it gains harmony and distinction, so give it another few years in bottle and allow it to reach its plateau.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Full medium red. Primary, peppery aromas of redcurrant, briary strawberry, mocha and brown spices. At once supple and high-pitched on the palate, showing intense berry, menthol and spice flavors accented by floral pastilles. This sappy, chewy, deep wine projects an impression of weightlessness. My sample expanded impressively with 48 hours in the recorked bottle while retaining its light touch.
Deep, bright red. Reticent nose hints at blackberry and licorice. Tightly wound and rather streamlined, showing good cool underlying minerality but less personality today than the Gevrey premier crus. Still a bit lean on the minerally, spicy back end.
About the producer
Nicolas Potel is one of Burgundy’s most talented and connected winemakers. He created Maison Roche de Bellene, the négoce arm of Domaine de Bellene, in 2008, using his extensive network in the region to source top-quality fruit for an "haute couture" négociant operation.