2012 Vosne Romanee Les Beaux Monts Vieilles Vignes

(a blend of parcels at the top and bottom of the appellation, according to Laurent; the youngest vines here are from 1959; 50% new oak): Bright, saturated medium ruby. Superripe but reticent aromas of black fruit liqueur and bitter chocolate. Creamy-sweet and liqueur-like on entry, then silky and fine-grained in the middle, showing a captivating sugar/acid balance thanks to superb mineral energy. Most impressive today on the sappy, slowly mounting, extremely long back end, which displays great vinosity and endless violet perfume.