Burgundy

Coming from 4 parcels, of which Meix Goudard is the biggest, which is on the level of the premier Crus (under les Macherelles), Blanchots - on the rock next to Criots, and Journoblots, which is under Criots. All are well-placed and make up 1.35 ha in total, so this is Joseph's biggest cuvée. He says he tries to pick it at 12.5% maximum, to retain freshness, and he succeeds - it is ripe, but the energetic freshness is retained. Pale gold with green/yellow reflections. Ripe sunny fruit nose is supported by comfortable oak and excellent acidity.

{***}{region}Chassagne-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The 2018 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru La Garenne mingles aromas of green orchard fruit and white flowers with nuances of patisserie, followed by a medium to full-bodied, racy and precise palate that combines texture with cut, as do so many of Colin's wines this year.

{***}{region} Puligny-Montrachet {region}
{color} White {color}                                                               {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
[] The Wine Advocate:: 91/100
{ratings}{***}

Six parcels of vines blended together. A lovely balance of fruit and the light framing of oak. An edge of green pith, leading to a citrussy point; vibrant and delicious. Almost tannic feel with the phenolics on the finish, suggesting much more development to come as it rounds out.

{***}{region}St Aubin{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
   {ratings}        {***}

A deft application of wood sets off airy and cool aromas that include those of citrus, pear and a whiff of mineral reduction. There is more volume if perhaps not quite the same electricity to the medium-bodied flavors that possess better mid-palate flesh, all wrapped in a clean, dry and citrusy finale. This would benefit from having more depth, but it may well develop if allowed 3 to 5 years of cellaring. ( Burghound)

{***}{region}St Aubin{region}
{color}White{color}  {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

Les Frionnes is a premier cru from 40-year-old vines, located at 300 metres of altitude on the steep hills of Saint-Aubin. This is one of the coolest climats in the appellation. The wine is matured in Burgundy barrels, with ¼ new oak. The wine exudes aromas of white flowers and flint. With a little of bottle aging, the palate is glycerine and silky with incredible tension.

{***}{region}St Aubin{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
    {ratings}        {***}

This is a blend of Chatenière and Bas de Gamay à l’Est, both of which are on the same steep, southwest-facing slope. It’s an outstanding wine with a thick texture and a refined, flint reduction running through the core. Pure, mineral and grippy with plenty of dry extract, this is a wine of supreme class. Drink 2023-2029.

{***}{region}St Aubin{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings} {***}

Chablis producers have defined the style of chardonnay in this famous region, and this has all the purity and steely freshness with classic aromas of crushed oyster shell and lime, plus plenty of ripe stone fruits, fresh acidity, minerality and an oyster shell finish. Brilliant on its own, but perfect with Good Friday fish pie, goats cheese salad and shellfish.

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color} White{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

This old-vine cuvée is fermented and aged for the first year in oak, before moving to tank to avoid drying out. The nose is surprisingly serious, with some spicy oak reduction. It’s quite peachy and rounded initially on the palate, before a pleasing salinity arrives and tightens up the finish. Drink 2021-2025. 

{***}{region} Mâcon{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

For our 2019 White Burgundy we have worked once again with our good friends Jean-Luc Terrier and Christian Collovray. The warm and sunny 2019 vintage has yielded a charming wine with aromas of ripe stone-fruit, subtle floral touches and a suggestion of toasted hazelnuts. The palate is at once generous and refreshing, with a mineral, smoky finish courtesy of judicious oak ageing. A versatile wine, enjoy it on its own or as an accompaniment to salads, seafood and lighter meat dishes.

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}White{color}
{vintage}2020{vintage}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{ratings}

{ratings}{***}

The fruit for our 2018 Nuits-St Georges comes from 50-year-old vines in three different vineyards. The warm vintage has yielded a generous, spicy wine with a rich and rounded mouthfeel. Red and black cherries jostle for attention with sweet oak spice, while supple tannins and refreshing acidity make this an excellent wine for the table. Drink now to 2026.

{***}
{region}Nuits-St Georges{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Made with fruit from 65-year-old, organically farmed vines, our 2017 Gevrey-Chambertin is charming, fleet-footed and delicate. Using two-thirds whole bunches and just 15% new oak, brothers David and Nicolas Rossignol have produced a vibrant and energetic wine with a beguiling floral perfume, sweet crushed strawberry fruit and a refreshing finish. Try it with lighter red meat dishes  or salmon.

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
 
{ratings}{***}

These vines are slightly younger than those in Forêt, planted in 1956. There’s clay in the soil here, a real boon in 2019 as it helped the vines to weather the dry summer. Earthy and restrained, this will require a little more time to mature, but there’s a real energy and substantial weight of fruit. It’s very promising. Drink 2023-2030. 

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color}White{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} 

{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Burghound:: 91/100        
  [] Jasper Morris MW:: 90-93/100 Outstanding      
 {ratings}   

{***}

The 2012 Chablis Les Clos is all about texture. A deep, layered wine, the Clos is going to need at least a few years to fully blossom, but it is impressive today. Hints of white orchard fruit meld into flowers and subtle spice notes in a striking, compelling Chablis that is a wonderfully alive in the glass. There is so much to look forward to here. - Antonio Galloni

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color}White{color}              {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Antonio Galloni:: 95/100        
  [] Allen Meadows:: 94/100    
 {ratings}   

{***}

Dominique has used a mixture of 500-litre demi-muids and barriques, with 20% new wood. The fruit, as usual, is 50-50 between Puligny and Meursault; both elements play their part. The vintage has given the wine a creamy attack and, initially, the wine is very full on the palate, but it trims to a more sculpted Puligny-style finish. Drink 2021-2025. 

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

This is from just 1.5 hectares of domaine vineyards within the Meursault commune, which cover all its aspects, north to south. Matured in a mix of 600- and 500-litre oak barrels, it’s a very tight and classic Meursault-style Bourgogne Blanc, with a pleasing grip and top note of spice. Drink now to 2024.

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

This comes from the five hectares immediately in front of the château, a park until it was planted in 1986. Brian did not use any SO2 until after the malolactic fermentation, and the wine is only aged in minimum 500-litre barrels. It’s classically Puligny in style, with flinty reduction and a pure, floral, citrus profile. Drink 2021-2026.

{***}{region} Burgundy{region}
{color} White {color}                                                              
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The fruit comes from the lower slopes and younger vines of the excellent Les Quarts vineyard – which sits on a perfectly exposed south-east-facing slope with views over the Saone valley towards Mont Blanc. Eighty percent is made in tank, for freshness. The rest is fermented and aged in old barrels, giving a gentle oxygenation which rounds out the palate and adds complexity. The nose is packed with apple and pear, with a light dusting of acacia, vanilla and straw. Juicy and medium bodied on the palate, this offers plenty of concentration and a saline, precise finish. This biodynamic Burgundy is excellent value. Drink now to 2026.

{***}
{region} Burgundy{region}
{color} White {color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}White{color}                                                           

                                     {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}  

[] Jasper Morris MW:: 89-92/100  

{ratings} {***}

This wine has a pronounced mineral character and saline finish: it’s “linear” in the brothers’ words. It hails from a north-facing vineyard, which performs well in warm years like 2019. It’s raised predominantly in tank – 80% of the blend – to lock in that tension. Drink 2020-2026. 

{***}{region} St Véran {region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

Poruzots is a vineyard quick to ripen, and Brian takes care to pick this in good time, as evidenced by the vibrant bead of acidity which runs through the wine. There is the classic Poruzots breadth, along with an earthy reduction, but there is real freshness here. It was in 20% new oak. Drink 2023-2029.

{***}{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

This wine comes from the climats of Casse-Tête, Les Petits Charrons and Narvaux du Dessous, three terroirs which are perfectly sited in the middle of the hill of Meursault, also known as the Montagne Saint-Christophe. There is good weight here, but this is a true hillside Meursault with a serious acid structure, graphite reduction and chewy, mineral finish. Drink2022-2028.

{***}{region} Meursault {region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}20168{vintage}{***}

This is a wonderfully positioned vineyard for a simple village wine, nestling under the Grand Cru Bâtard-Montrachet. The Bachelets’ parcel also touches Chassagne’s Les Encegnières. The fruit is rich and luscious, around a very mineral and compact core. A very fine example at this level. Drink 2022-2025.

{***}{region}Puligny-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                      {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

This high, exposed vineyard close to Blagny is benefitting from this current run of warm vintages. The 50-year-old vines yield very small berries, but the warmth of the year has added some lustrous fruit to the steely core of minerality. Drink 2024-2029.

{***}{region}Puligny-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                            

   {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

From half a hectare in the middle of the slope, bordered either side by Leflaive and Leroy, this is the essence of Puligny. It’s floral and citrus on the nose, with a more rounded, elegant and voluptuous texture, then an intense freshness which Brian feels will only increase with time. Drink 2025-2032. 

{***}{region}Puligny-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}[] Vinous:: 91-93/100

{ratings}

{***}

A monopole, this vineyard has been home to white grapes since 1110, when it was first planted by the monks of Citeaux. A beguiling and intriguing wine, it is taut and cocooned in youth, yet fulsomely aromatic with time. There’s a touch of cream in 2018. Drink 2023-2032.

{***}{region}  Burgundy {region}
{color} White {color} 

             {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

Boudriotte is sub-section of the larger Morgeot vineyard. There is deep red soil with more clay, so this wine has a lush, creamy style, but is not in any way fat. Drink 2023-2027.

{***}{region}Chassagne-Montrachet{region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Les Macherelles is situated in the northern part of Chassagne-Montrachet, just outside the village itself. The vineyard is notable for its iron-rich red clay soils, which always give a chewy, mineral aspect to the wine. The nose is rather exuberant, with some peach and mandarin notes interspersed with mealy spice and a touch of oak. This is an intense and quite powerful wine, but with a persistent thread of sinewy, mineral freshness.

{***}{region}Chassagne-Montrachet{region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The young vines used for this cuvée come from cuttings of old Pinot Fin taken from the Clos des Epeneaux around 20 years ago, planted on the steep, south-facing limestone slope of Les Cras. Whole-bunch (50%) gives a delicious nose of pure Pinot fruit, with crushed strawberry and floral touches. Very elegant and delicate, it’s a massive success. Drink 2021-2028.

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} {***}

This is a blend of the Volnay Bourgogne lieu-dit Les Longbois – an historic De Montille parcel – and two parcels around Puligny. Such was the quality of the fruit that Brian took the unusual step to use one-third whole-bunch which lends a little twist of freshness and structure to the finish, balancing the ripe red berry fruit to give a rather serious Bourgogne. Drink 2021-2026.

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 {ratings}{***}

This is from a sector of the same vineyard as the blanc, with reddish, ferrous soil. Both grapes and stems ripened beautifully: Jean-Yves could thus vinify this cuvée whole-bunch. He likes the aromatic effect – an herbaceous complement to the ripe red berries – and suppleness it contributes to the palate. This’ll give enormous pleasure in the short- to medium-term. Drink 2022-2025. 

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}
{***}

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100 {ratings}

{***}

This 0.64-hectare vineyard is a monopole for Ben. It’s an extension of the La Cave village-level vineyard above it on the hill, but inside the village, which creates a warmer environment. As a result, the wine is not as expansively aromatic as the best Premiers Crus but, by contrast, has a more old-fashioned aspect of solid dependability, which Ben successfully enhances with 20% whole-bunch. Drink 2024-2029.

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}
{ratings}

{***}

Four barrels from one parcel, this is a regal Volnay, flattering yet compelling at the same time. There were two-thirds whole-bunch this year, but Ben makes the decision for this vineyard based on the quality of the vines’ genetic material, mostly on the basis of its 70-year-old vines. Drink 2023-2029.

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}
{ratings}

{***}

This is an outstanding site renowned for its intensely mineral wines; sadly the Bitouzets only own enough to make barely three barrels. The nose is a little marked by the oak at the moment but will absorb the wood with time; there is certainly the fruit and the rocky, precise tannins to carry this. A vin de garde. Drink 2024-2032.

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

The Premier Cru "Les Brouillards" is quite heterogeneous. The Domaine's tiny vineyard of 0.37 hectare is found in the top – and best – portion that runs alongside "Les Mitans", on a rocky and marl-dense soil with fine clay.

The reds with purple and deep robes, exalt their fruity and floral bouquets. On the palate the tannins are dense and of great maturity. It will however be necessary to be patient before being able to appreciate, the full potential of this exceptional vintage in red. It is similar to 2005 and ageing theses wine at least ten years.

{***}{region} Volnay{region}
{color} Red {color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}
{***}

Having created a name for himself as régisseur (general manager) of Domaine du Comte Armand in Pommard, Benjamin Leroux established, with English backing, a small négociant business, based in Beaune since 2007. The possibilities are very exciting for this exceptionally talented vigneron. Benjamin is a master at delivering purity of fruit alongside a seamless texture in his wines, which have only the subtlest influence of oak.

This is quintessential Volnay, with a really stylish and heady nose giving way to a fine-boned, lovely, graceful palate dominated by roses. A decent yield was produced this year and it is ripe, but not with black fruit.

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}

{ratings} 
{ratings}

{***}

Domaine Boisson-Vadot, run by father and son team of Bernard and Pierre Boisson, is one of the rising stars in Meursault. The philosophy of the Domaine revolves around careful, hands-on vineyard management to coax the greatest potential of each vintage out of the various plots, and low-impact winemaking in the cellars that allows the unique terroir of each vineyard to surface. New oak is very minimal, no more than 30% for the top cuvées, and much more restraint in  the village wines and in Bourgogne Blanc.

Pierre Boisson produces a village Meursault from his grandmother’s vineyards (50 year old vines in the lieu-dits of Criots and Perchots) that is hailed an model wine for the appellation. 

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color}Red{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}

[] Vinous:: 94/100

{ratings}

{***}

Having made Clos des Epeneaux at Comte Armand, Ben had always harboured an ambition to make Pommard’s other great wine, so was delighted to take the opportunity; this comes from a plot in the lower part of Les Rugiens-Hauts. There is a real concentration of fruit here, Grand Cru weight and a wonderfully elegant tannic structure which underlines the class of this site.

{***}{region} Pommard{region}
{color} Red {color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 90/100{ratings}{***}

This is a very well-situated vineyard just on the north side of the town of Nuits. Vougeraie has the centre of the vineyard, known as Clos de Thorey, although there isn’t actually a clos. With very refined tannins, it’s very pure, the freshness of the finish tinged with a hint of sweet spice. Drink 2023-2028.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges{region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}laying-down{maturity} 

{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

The Domaine Alain Michelot Nuits-Saint-Georges Vieilles Vignes displays all the richness garnered from 45 year old vines. Powerful, aromatic and with wonderful texture this wine offers complex flavours of blackberry, blackcurrant and smoke leading on to a long, elegant and flavoursome finish.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}

{ratings}

{***}

This is another important cuvée for Ben and it demonstrates his ability to capture the essence of a village’s character with, it seems, almost minimum effort. Everything was de-stemmed this year and, yes, it’s immediate and authentic, but also delivers more complexity than is at first evident. Notes of lavender and sweet peony, and a more schoolmasterly structure. Drink 2022-2028.

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}[] Antonio Galloni:: 89-91/100{ratings}

{***}

Sérafin’s vines sit within a clos of sorts here, in what used to be a cemetery. The vines are 50 years old and the wine has a fine-boned structure wrapped like a belt around a weighty, spicy middle. This is quite a substantial wine, but it will age well. Drink 2026-2032.

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text} 

{vintage}2018{vintage}

{***}

This is the most northerly of Gevrey’s Premier Cru vineyards, with an easterly exposure. The wines are always fruity and in lighter years they can be quite stern, but the warmth of 2018 has given a note of cranberry, and the allusion continues on the palate, with sweet red fruit marbled with bright acidity. Drink 2025-2032.

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{***}

There is an element of black cherry to this wine, as the vineyard abuts Morey and is more influenced by the limestone closer to the surface. Really precise and with a touch of iron to complement the fruit. Jérôme finds a viande saignante (rare meat) note on the wine’s crisp finish. Drink 2020-2025.

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

The most northerly Premier Cru of Gevrey, the vineyard is both high and east-facing. This lends the bouquet a mouth-watering note of crushed berry and the palate a certain severity, leading to pinpointed fruit and sculpted tannins. One to keep. Drink 2023-2029.

It is fair to say that Ben is very happy with 2017, describing it as the kind of vintage he would sign up for every year. The whites, he says, are beautiful, and not far from 2014 in style, with purity, finesse, great definition and balance. He describes the reds as pretty, appealing and with body to support ageing, while highlighting the importance of lower-yielding old vines for serious ageing. He eloquently explains that there is no “black sheep” in 2017, that no village has underperformed. For reason of space, the limited volumes of Grands Crus have not been included in this brochure. 

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

The Maumes see their wines falling into two groups: Etelois, Champeaux and Charmes are pretty and succulent, thus requiring oak from Jupilles or Troncais in the hands of coopers who specialise in finesse. En Pallud, the premier cru cuvée and Mazis-Chambertin have more rugged frames and need the firmer hand of Nevers wood from (e.g.) Berthomieu. while Lavaux is between the two, tending one way or the other according to vintage.

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}

{ratings}

{ratings}

{***}

The lower part here is Premier Cru, beside Les Fuées. This is from the village section, above Les Fuées and adjacent to Bonnes Mares. Its altitude is a real benefit during global warming. The perfume is bright, pure and lifted; the palate is full of redcurrant fruit with chalky tannins. It’s charming and full of joie de vivre. Drink 2022-2032. 

{***}{region}Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Vinous:: 91-93/100        
 [] Jasper Morris MW:: 90-93/100{ratings}        {***}

This vineyard is at the northern (Morey) end of Chambolle and immediately under Bonnes-Mares, where Sérafin has two parcels. The wine has plenty of bright fruit and a very positive attack, not especially on the delicate end of Chambolle, but high-quality nonetheless. Drink 2022-2027.

{***}
{region}Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color}Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text} 

{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100{ratings}

{***}

There is good dose of Premier Cru wine in this blend, with Les Chatelots comprising a quarter of the blend, with a seasoning of Charmes, and the balance of the village lieux-dits Les Bas Doix, Les Véroilles and Les Athets. The joy of this blend is that it covers the village slopes from the bottom to the top. There are 10 barrels this year and it is a sweetly textured Chambolle – with this, rather than perfume, forming the wine’s focus. Irresistible. Drink 2022-2027.

{***}
{region}Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}
{ratings}

{***}

As usual, this is a 60-40 blend of two of Auxey’s best sites: Les Breterins and Bas de Duresses. Everything was de-stemmed and there is 20 percent new oak. This reached a high level of ripeness, now with 13.7 degrees alcohol, but the freshness is here with laudable intensity on the palate. Drink 2022-2027.

{***}
{region} Auxey-Duresses{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

The 2017 Volnay 1er Cru Les Santenots-du-Milieu confirms its strong showing from barrel, soaring from the glass with scents of ripe cherries, red berries, rose petals, orange rind and a deft touch of toasty new oak. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy, with melting tannins, succulent acids and a charming, supple profile that makes it hard to resist. - Wine Advocate 

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 93/100

 [] Vinous:: 93/100

 [] Burghound:: 92/100

{ratings}

{***}

Ben’s parcel is located just above the famous Clos des 60 Ouvrées. Caillerets gives some of Volnay’s most joyous and headily perfumed wines, redolent of violet and rose. There are some old vines, up to 70 years old, and Ben uses as much whole-bunch as he can (80% this year), based on each vine’s genetic quality. The year’s ripeness translates to succulence, but the terroir also gives composure and equanimity. Drink 2026-2033.

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}
{ratings}

{***}

This is a blend of five parcels, split 50-50 between the left and right banks of the Serein. Raised entirely in stainless steel to preserve freshness, the attractive nose offers ripe orchard fruits and a touch of sea breeze. The palate is surprisingly concentrated and dense for a village wine but retains its Chablis minerality. It’s very attractive. Drink 2021-2026. 

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}

drink-now

{maturity-text} {vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

A classic Chablis nose features notes of sea breeze, shellfish and algae that add interest to the intensely citrusy nose. There is good if not special volume to the vibrant and attractively textured flavors that brim with minerality on the clean and agreeably dry but not really austere finale. This is worth checking out. 2023+
Allen Meadows, Burghound, (December 2020) 

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Burghound :: 89/100

[] Jasper Morris MW :: 89/100 

{***}

This vineyard has a high proportion of Chardonnay Muscaté, which gives the wine its characteristic floral nose with rose petals and a touch of blood orange. As ever, this is picked early to preserve freshness, and there’s a pleasing bitterness to the finish of this otherwise generous wine. Drink 2021-2026. 

{***}{region} St Véran {region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Jasper Morris MW ::87-90/100

{ratings}

{***}

This one-hectare plot, purchased by the Brets’ grandfather, lies on relatively deep soils in the heart of the village of Vinzelles – overlooked by the primary school and mairie. Conceived for early drinking, it’s expressive and harmonious from the word “go”. Its texture is gorgeous. Drink 2020-2023.  

{***}
{region} Burgundy{region}
{color} White {color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

When the classification arrives in 2020, this will be the highest-altitude Premier Cru in Pouilly-Fuissé: it’s over 300 metres above sea level. There’s a little more ripeness to the nose here, but the palate retains the signature freshness of the vineyard. A star performer this year, this has wonderful salinity and minerality. Drink 2024-2030. 

{***}{region} Pouilly-Fuissé {region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Jasper Morris MW:: 90-92/100

[] Vinous:: 92/100

{ratings}

{***}

Most (80%) of this wine comes from a section of the Chalumeaux Premier Cru vineyard, which had to be declassified in 1975 when the previous owner illegally imported some fertile topsoil. Deep roots and soil erosion have since rectified the damage and, combined with parcels from Levron and Baudrières-Nosroy, this makes a top village Puligny. It’s precise, clean and classic, with floral top notes. Drink 2022-2029.

{***}{region}Puligny- Montrachet{region}
{color} White{color}          
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
    {ratings}        {***}

The upper part of this vineyard is very well-exposed and can sometimes give exotic wines if picked too late. This, however, is perfectly balanced, with a ripe-fruit attack underpinned by stinging acidity and a chewy grip on the finish. A serious and textural wine. Drink 2022-2029.

{***}{region}St Aubin{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 {ratings}        {***}

Gruyaches is tucked in under Charmes, on the Premier Cru side of the road to Puligny. The oldest vines date to 1930. It’s as good, if not better, than some Premier Cru Charmes, just above it. The site is warm, with clay over limestone, but the old vines give moderation. The wine is intense, honeyed, layered and harmonious. Drink 2022-2032. 

{***}{region} Meursault {region}
{color} White {color}                                                               {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} []Jasper Morris MW:: 90-92/100

{ratings}

{***}

This is a much bigger cuvée, yielding around thirty barrels; it’s a site Olivier knows well. As the name suggests, this is a well-exposed slope, but there’s plenty of limestone and the rootstock is late ripening. There’s some orange blossom and mandarin here, with serious acidity and a grippy, textural finish. Drink 2023-2029.  

{***}{region} St Véran {region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Jasper Morris MW ::87-89/100

{ratings}

{***}

This cuvée is from old vines planted on a steep, south-facing site with high limestone content. It’s a wine which always punches above its weight, requiring a few years before approaching. Olivier shows this after the St Vérans, such is the regard in which it’s held. The 2019 is very concentrated, if a little more accessible than usual. Drink 2022-2027. 

{***}{region} Mâcon{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

This well-sited vineyard sits immediately below Premier Cru Les Referts, close to the Meursault boundary. Coming amid the run of Meursaults in the tasting, it always stands in stark contrast: its bonier, leaner Puligny architecture is even more exaggerated. It’s very concentrated with stony, spicy notes. There’s perhaps just an atom of Meursault in its genes. Drink 2022-2030. 

"An even more floral blend is composed by notes of mostly essence of pear and apple. The finer and sleeker but not richer middle weight flavors possess a beguiling texture that carries over to the citrusy, clean and bone-dry finale. This stylish effort is very Puligny in character and well-worth checking out. " 89-91pts Outstanding, Allen Meadows, Burghound

"Notes of citrus zest, warm bread, hazelnuts and white flowers introduce the 2019 Puligny-Montrachet Les Levrons, a medium to full-bodied, satiny and precise wine with a pretty core of fruit that's girdled by bright acids." 90pts William Kelley, Wine Advocate

{***}{region}Puligny-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings}[] Jasper Morris MW:: 89-92/100

[] Burghound:: 89-91/100

[] Wine Advocate:: 90/100

{ratings}

{***}

Close to Les Corbins, this offers a very contrasting style: it has a tighter structure and quite a saline lick. The intensity of the acidity adds a sparkle to the fruit’s top notes; they’re closer to apricot, with some appealing smoky spice, allspice perhaps. The wine has great length, retaining fine composure in the context of the vintage. Drink 2022-2029. 

{***}
{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Vinous:: 90-92/100

[] Jasper Morris MW:: 89-91/100

{ratings}

{***}

This wine is made without adding sulphur during vinification, the intention being that it drinks well and gives pleasure when young. Made with two-thirds whole bunches, it’s explosively floral on the nose. The palate has juicy crushed strawberry fruit flavours, finishing with chalky tannins. Drink now to 2023.

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 {ratings}{***}

From a 0.2-hectare site in the climat of Châtains, this wine is fermented in tank and raised in used barrels. It’s open and appealing, with ripe citrus fruits and a touch of iodine on the nose. The palate is crisp and bright; a pleasing seam of acidity brings things to a harmonious and salivating finish. Drink 2022-2028. 

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color}White{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} 

{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Burghound:: 90/100        
  [] Jasper Morris MW:: 89-91/100 Outstanding      
 {ratings}   

{***}

This juicy and voluptuous Pinot Noir comes from vines in a natural suntrap not far from Pommard. The oak is well-integrated and adds a hint of spice, but the emphasis here is on ripe red-berry fruit. As ever with Sébastien's reds, its tannins seem to melt in the mouth. It makes a showstopping pairing with chargrilled tomahawk steak. Drink now to 2023.

{region}Beaune{region}
{color}Red{color}                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}
 {ratings}        {***}

The fruit here is from two parcels totalling 0.67 hectares: Les Houillères, which bestrides the Chassagne/Puligny boundary, and Champ Derrière, just below Château de Chassagne-Montrachet. There’s plenty of texture this year; the wine’s viscous, with a hint of wild honey and a long, rich finish. Drink 2022-2028.

{***}{region}Chassagne-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

This vineyard sits above several village Vosne vineyards, and the delicate Grivot touch imbues the wine with an elegant and caressing character. Ripe, juicy red fruit fills the palate, wrapped in perfectly ripe tannins which simply melt away, leaving a chalky, fresh finish. Drink 2022-2028.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges{region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The 2018 Monthélie Les Duresses has a well-defined, focused bouquet of pretty white flower and Granny Smith apple scents. The palate is well balanced with fine depth, a good seam of acidity and a gentle, orange pith-tinged finish. This is a fine Montagny. Drink 2021-2026. Neil Martin 88-90 points

Smoky aromas of pear, apple, spice and a whiff of citrus zest lead to equally energetic if somewhat less concentrated flavors that exude more evident minerality on the delicious and crunchy finish. This too is attractively refreshing. Drink 2024+. Allen Meadows 88-91 points

88-91AM

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color} White{color}                                                              

{maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings} [] Neil Martin:: 88-90/100

[] Allen Meadows:: 88-91/100

{ratings}{***}

This is a higher vineyard in Chassagne, on the appellation’s southern border. The soil is poor and stony over limestone. This Chassagne is riper than an equivalent Meursault this year, with an extra 0.5% potential alcohol, despite being harvested on the same day. But there is plenty of detail in the fruit and a lush, unctuous finish. Drink 2023-2029.

{***}{region}Chassagne-Montrachet{region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The deeper clay soil here has preserved an energetic, mentholated freshness, which provides an engaging counterpoint to the black cherry fruit and bitter dark chocolate notes. The attack is friendly and generous, but there is serious structure behind, and this will require patience. Drink 2025-2031.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges{region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Initially offered as “Sur le Coteau” in 2016, this wine comes from the climats of Casse-Tête, Les Petits Charrons (both from Château de Puligny) and Narvaux du Dessous (from De Montille). These three terroirs are perfectly sited in the middle of the hillside of Meursault, also known as the Montagne St Christophe. This class shines through, with perfect weight, bright acidity and a long, fine finish. Drink 2021 - 2028.

{***}{region} Meursault {region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings} [] The Wine Advocate:: 89-91/100

{ratings}

{***}

The Grivots have been working very hard at their Clos de Vougeot over the years, looking to soften the wine’s usually sturdy tannins. Certainly there is a suavity this year, a touch of Vosne magic, perhaps. A strong wine that Étienne is trying to educate. Drink 2025-2032.

{***}{region} Burgundy {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}1985{vintage}

{***}

Dominique rents this from the same owner as Vignes Franches, and the vines are also 60 years old. Arguably Beaune’s best vineyard, this has an extra layer of dark, meaty richness alongside the usual bright, floral notes. Drink 2024-2031.

{***}

{region}Beaune{region} {color}Red{color} {maturity}ready-improve{maturity}

{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text} {vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}
 {ratings}        {***}

Vines for this cuvée are between 40 and 50 years old, from the Prunier vineyard; this generic climat is surrounded by the Gevrey vineyards of Platières and Grands Champs. There’s 70% new oak. This performs as a Gevrey in all but name. There’s plenty of sturdiness from which the deeper dark fruit notes emerge into a long finish. Drink 2023-2028.

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}
{***}

This lieu-dit just above Clos de Tart has a very cool, mineral terroir. This saw 80 percent whole-bunch  and 30 percent new oak. The nose is pretty, with a delicate lift and an energy which flows through to  the palate. Pleasant, medium-weight fruit is underpinned by a cool, chalky grip from the  limestone soil. Drink 2020-2024.

{***}
{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

The vines for this cuvée are 70 years old on average, with some nudging 100 years. The parcels are neighbours to the Grands and Premiers Crus of Griottes, Petite Chapelle, Crais and Champeaux. There is a step up in concentration versus the regular bottling, with greater detail and complexity, and a lovely salivating freshness to finish. Drink 2024-2030.

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text} 

{vintage}2018{vintage}

{***}

Brian was limited to 50% whole-bunch here; it would have been more, but there was no space in the tank. Champans can tend towards the rustic and tannic, and Brian softens the edges to give a softer, gentler and more delicate expression with silky tannins and lovely, perfumed lift. Drink 2023-2029.

{***}{region} Volnay {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

As Pommards go, Les Pézerolles is rather Volnaysien in style, thanks to its limestone soils, which give a more elegant and delicate expression. The fruit here is most definitely red and this is pretty, perfumed and charming, but with a serious, chalky limestone structure. Drink 2024-2032.

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}        {***}

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings} [] Burghound:: 89/100

{ratings}

{***}

There are two suppliers for this wine, one each located in Charmes and Mazoyères-Chambertin. The nose for this Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru is plump and open, but attractively fresh. The stems show a bit, more structure than usual, improving the overall structure of the wine. Another impressively long finish.

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}

{ratings} []Burghound:: 91-94/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17/20

{ratings}

{***}

Rich full purple. An explosive nose of weight and majesty, everything you would hope for. Chassin barrel shows again, marvellous mid palate fruit, then a wonderful long finish based around a complex basket of fruit, superb texture, seamless, and enormously long. Again there is a wonderful, fresh undercurrent which comes from picking at the right time. Bravo. Throughout this wine shows a beautiful grain of finesse, with silky tannins all the way through.
Jasper Morris MW

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}

{ratings} []Burghound:: 93-96/100

{ratings}

{***}

This Mazis will not lie down easily to the challenge posed by the Clos de Bèze for top dog status in the Bernstein range. It has a marvellously dense, backward nose and a sublimely full palate coming from grapes which were evidently picked at the perfect moment. There is a fabulous crunchy finish and amazing persistence. The 80 year old vines are speaking. It may open out a little earlier, but otherwise 2018-2028.
Jasper Morris MW

{***}{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}       

    {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}         
[]Burghound:: 93-95/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17/20   

{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2002{vintage}

{ratings} 90pts Stephen Tanzer

{***}

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}

{ratings}[] Burghound:: 88/100 {

ratings

}

{***}

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}

{ratings} {

ratings

}

{***}

Deep ruby red colour with an attractive nose offering intense aromas of small black fruits. A powerful, warm and concentrated wine with exceptional aromatic intensity with elegant tannins and a touch of leather that linger son the finish.

This parcel is situated in the northern part of the village just before the valley. This climat's name is derived from "La Val", the term used in the Middle Ages to refer to a low point in the land, a topographic rift. Along with "Les Cazetiers" and "Clos Saint-Jacques", this climat is considered to be one of the 3 best Premiers Crus in Gevrey. The Domaine purchased this parcel in late 2013.

{***}{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}{***}

This Bourgogne Rouge from Domaine Guyon is made exclusively from vineyards in Vosne; it’s a lot more structured than most wines at the generic level in 2017. The 100% whole-bunch house style is obvious, making for a generous red with an appealing line of freshness and purity. Drink now to 2023.

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{***}

Benjamin Leroux produced 13 barrels of this Chambolle-Musigny in 2017; three of them come from the Chatelots Premier Cru vineyard. The nose is pretty and perfumed, with peony and rose petal notes alongside some wild berry aromas. The palate is clean and energetic, with real intensity and purity. This is a focused, precise and mineral expression of Chambolle-Musigny. Drink now to 2025.

{***}
{region}Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}
{ratings}

{***}

{***}{region} Burgundy {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

Some 80% of de Montille's 2018 Puligny-Montrachet Village consists of declassified premier cru Les Chalumeaux, which may account for why it's so good this year. Revealing notes of citrus oil, white flowers, fresh pastry and beeswax, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and succulent, combining charming fruit with mineral nuance to persuasive effect. (89 - 91 points, The Wine Advocate, 13th February 2020)

{***}{region}Puligny-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                            

                   {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Our friend Benjamin Leroux has made this excellent Burgundian Pinot Noir for us. Sourced exclusively from vineyards in Chorey-lès-Beaune, this wine punches above its weight in complexity and elegance. The nose is serious and brooding; pepper notes accompany charming wild-berry fruits. The warm and sunny vintage delivers generous morello cherry and subtle spice. It’s approachable now but has the structure to keep for three to five years. Pair this versatile wine with charcuterie, cheese and heartier dishes.

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2020{vintage}
{***}

The ingredients here are some of Meursault’s best village vineyards. Chaumes de Narvaux is elegant and mineral, Clous adds finesse, Limouzin is nestled among the Premiers Crus, giving depth and richness, while Criots and Crotots add textbook buttery notes. Jean-Philippe works his magic and makes one of the best examples at this level, showing creamy and crystallised fruits. Drink 2022-2030. 

{***}{region} Meursault  {region}
{color} White {color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Jasper Morris MW:: 88-91/100

{ratings}

{***}

Almost the whole blend is from the Côte d’Or, mostly Meursault; the inclusion of some Hautes-Côtes de Beaune fruit, for added zip, means it cannot use the Côte d’Or appellation. Ben uses 600-litre foudres, preserving the wine’s alluring freshness, with creamy textures from ageing on lees. A delicious benchmark. Drink 2021-2025. 

{***}{region} Burgundy{region}
{color} White{color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}
{ratings} [] Jancis Robinson:: 16.5/20

[] Jasper Morris MW:: 88-88/20

{ratings}{***}

Ben now has access to all the vines from his supplier in Vosne, so this year this wine is an even more complex quilt of different vineyards, namely Basses Maizières, Genaivrières, La Rivière, Aux Raviolles and Les Jacquines. It’s full of sumptuous, open and juicy fruit, with a lovely positive mid-palate. The greater volume this year from the newer vineyards means a little less whole-bunch, at 33%. 

{***}{region}Vosne-Romanée{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}           
      
{ratings}{***}

{***}{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}              {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}

{ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}

{ratings} {ratings}

{***}

The 2018 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Derrière La Tour is showing nicely, mingling aromas of cherries and red berries with hints of potpourri and spices. Medium to full-bodied, bright and fleshy, the combination of a warm vintage and a cooler, higher-altitude site is felicitous.

{***}{region}St Aubin{region}
{color}Red{color}                      {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 90/100

{ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}  [] Jancis Robinson:: 16.5/20

{

ratings

}

{***}

Half these vines were planted in 1964, the rest in ’99. The younger vines provide fruit and energy, the older density and concentration. The nose is restrained, showing green apple; the palate is generous without falling into yellow fruit. The texture is luxurious, with a stinging acidity to the finish. There’s power and freshness, with a lingering salinity. Drink 2022-2028. 

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color}White{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} 

{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings}       
  [] Jasper Morris MW:: 89-92/100       
 {ratings}   

{***}

Old vines. Pale to mid yellow, with a warm spicy nose, not, so typical of Fourchaume, soft and fleshy behind, then brightens up at the finish. Slight caramel note at the moment, which should disappear. - Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy

{***}{region}Chablis{region}
{color}White{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} 

{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings}       
  [] Jasper Morris MW:: 89-92/100       
 {ratings}   

{***}

This centrally placed, steeply sloping vineyard is probably the pick of the Meursault village lieux-dits. Jean-Philippe has just under one hectare of vines planted in 1949, ’65 and ’76. Its easterly exposition gives a more mineral style, with an intense lift of fruit on the finish. Drink 2022-2029.

{***}{region} Meursault  {region}
{color} White {color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} 

{ratings}

{***}

With subtle perfume, this is rather lovely, but not glossy, as the vineyard lies towards Pommard so is more structured than most. Last year’s frosts were heavy here and have meant some retraining of damaged vines, reducing the normal yield by 40 percent, but they should be back in commission by the 2019 vintage. Drink 2020-2024.

{region}Beaune{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}
{ratings}        {***}

Bright ruby-red. Deep, brooding, very pure aromas of black cherry, dark raspberry, cocoa powder and earth. Pliant, harmonious and sweet if without quite the power of the Morey-Saint-Denis Clos des Ormes. But this wine offers a nearly perfect balance of fruits, minerals, flowers and utterly suave, ripe tannins. Not at all overconcentrated, this sexy wine finishes smooth, plush and very long. - Vinous

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                             

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings} [] Vinous:: 92-94/100

[] Burghound:: 91-93/100

{ratings}

{***}

A distinctly floral nose of spice, plum and earth introduces relatively refined medium-bodied flavors that display a touch of wood on the solidly complex, well-balanced and persistent finish. As is typically the case this is an elegant Nuits but with the structure to reward longer-term cellaring. - Allen Meadows, Burghound

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}

{ratings} [] Burghound:: 89-92/100

{ratings}

{***}

The vines are grown respecting Organic and Biodynamic Agriculture principles. The Domaine does not trim, and all the vines are plaited (like Leroy Domain does), which creates bridges between the wines. Yann wants to limit or stop the use of copper in the vinyard. The Domain uses herbal preparation and decoctions to treat plantation. Some years it is almost possible, others, like 2016 is not possible. Yann Durieux spend a lot of time observing the vineyard, making research to find right solutions. Yann invests in equipment such as light chaser to be able to intervene at any time, with the least impact on the soil. This balance and reinforcement of the plant will allow Yann to work more serenely then in the cellar. The Domaine's wines are systematically made every year without any inputs. The use of chaptalisation, sulphiting and other "Bon-Dieuseries" are proscribed from the Domaine. This is why wines are very marked by the vintage effect.

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

Lightish cherry red. Sweet complete nose. Very rich and sweet on the palate. Charming! But with good freshness too. Great balance and attack. Not heavy but not light either. Tingle on the finish. (Jancis Robinson, jancisrobinson.com, January 2011)

{***}{region} Volnay{region}
{color} Red {color}                                                             

{maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}[] Jancis Robinson MW:: 17.5/20

{ratings}{***}

Moderate wood influence surrounds the overtly spiced and ripe plum, dark currant and violet scents. The attractively textured, rich and sappy medium weight flavors possess very good depth on the lengthy finish where a touch of wood appears. This is quite good for its level and is a wine that should drink well on the younger side if that's your preference. - Allen Meadows, Burghound

{***}{region}Vosne-Romanée{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}      [] Burghound:: 89-91/100

[] Vinous:: 88-90/100   

{ratings}{***}

Roulot's only premier cru bottling of red grapes, the Auxey is perfect for those who enjoy an ethereal, mineral-driven style of Pinot Noir. The nose presents a harmonious medley of dark berries and spice, while the palate echoes the taut, crystalline character of the domaine's white wines. A chalky core underpins this red that will drink beautifully for at least the next decade.

{***}
{region} Auxey-Duresses{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

A very pretty and airy nose features notes of red cherry, raspberry and spice with a shading of soft wood and earth. On the palate though this is not nearly as concentrated though there is still perfectly good concentration and a sleek muscularity on the vibrant, detailed and lingering finish. While this is by no means light, it is a Charmes built more along the lines of finesse than power. Drink 2028+

Burghound (Apr 2018)

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                             

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings} 

[] Burghound:: 91-94/100

{ratings}

{***}

Boillot's 2015 Volnay 1er Cru Frmiets is excellent, wafting from the glass with a lovely bouquet of wild plum, black cherry, musk, incense and rich soil tones. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, deep and seamless, layered and rich but remaining succulent and controlled, its finish long and sapid.

{***}{region} Volnay{region}
{color} Red {color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate:: 92/100

{ratings}

{***}

Georges Lignier is cousin to Hubert Lignier. In the 1980s the wines from the two domaines were broadly comparable, and a Clos de la Roche 1976 drunk in the summer of 2009 was superb, still remarkably youthful.

The vineyard holdings are impressive: Clos de la Roche, Clos St Denis, Charmes Chambertin, Bonnes Mares, Gevrey Chambertin Combottes, Morey St Denis Clos des Ormes, and village wines in Marsannay, Gevrey, Morey, Chambolle and Volnay.

{***}
{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}

{ratings}
{ratings}

{***}

In Etienne’s hands Roncière is always an elegant and red-fruited expression of Nuits, even in a warm vintage such as 2018. Red fruit abounds on the caressing palate, while the finish is spicy and refreshing, with a cooling sage-mint feel. Drink 2024-2030.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges{region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Consistently one of the highest quality vineyards in Nuits, producing wines deep in colour and fruit. With Faiveley providing a taut structure for ageing.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2004{vintage}

{ratings}

{ratings}

{***}

Five barrels of this were made in 2018. Most of the fruit comes from the cooler western side of the hill in Pernand-Vergelesses. This is classically proportioned with restrained stone-fruit and spine-tingling minerality. The finish is very textural, with a finely detailed and grippy mouth-feel. Drink 2024-2030.

{***}{region}Corton{region}
{color}White{color}                      

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The 2018 Meursault Les Porusots 1er Cru is maybe the dark horse of Dominique Lafon’s wines this vintage. Exceptional clarity and delineation on the nose the crushed rock and white flower scents wafting from the glass. The palate is well defined and sports a very subtle reduction. Powerful and intense with plenty of spice ginger and white pepper enhancing the finish. Superb. (Drink between 2023-2045)- Vinous

{***}{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} [] Vinous:: 95/100

{ratings}

{***}

This vineyard sits across the road from the house, with quite deep (two metres) topsoil over marne. Very typically Nuits, there’s plenty of black fruit and sweet spice on the nose, while the palate offers red and black cherry, and some floral touches. Weighty, dense and concentrated with a rocky, limestone texture to the tannins; it’s deep, dense, complex and age-worthy. Drink 2023-2030.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

Discreet but not invisible wood and menthol influences set off the much riper aromas of cassis, plum, black raspberry and game. There is excellent intensity to the mineral-driven and overtly powerful middle weight plus flavors that offer excellent depth and persistence on the firmly structured finale. This is really quite good and worth checking out provided you cellar it for at least 5 to 7 years first.  93 Points - Burghound

{***}
{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings} [] Burghound:: 93/100

{ratings}

{***}

Here there is a bit more wood influence on the distinctly earthy and quite floral aromas of dark currant poach plum and a softly spicy top note. The sleeker if not quite as dense medium-bodied flavors possess focused power that really builds as the dusty and serious finish sits on the palate. Excellent. Drink starting 2033. - Burghound

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} []Burghound:: 91-93/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 91-93/100

[]Vinous:: 91-93/100

[]Jasper Morris:: 92-95/100

{ratings}

{***}

This a blend from 10 parcels, vines averaging 50 years old. There’s 70% new wood, the balance being second-fill barrels. There’s a nice creamy texture to the wine, and quite a lot of ripeness. The wood tannins hold the wine, but also dry the finish a little. This is always a wine requiring considerable patience. Drink 2025-2030. 

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text} 

{vintage}2019{vintage}

{***}

This is from the northern end of Chambolle, immediately under Bonnes Mares, with which it shares some personality: this is a stronger style of Chambolle. There’s plenty of intent about the wine, and it has the shoulders to carry it off. A forthright and assertive wine, the slightly ferric tannins play a key role, underpinned by spicy oak. Drink 2027-2038. 

{***}
{region}Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color}Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text} 

{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings} {ratings}

{***}

Power, opulence and elegance characterize this magnificent wine of the Côte de Nuits. Among the most prestigious appellations in the world, Clos St Denis is one of the most successful wines by Domaine Magnien.

On the palate a full-bodied wine, very concentrated and complex. Roundness and balance are the reflection of a great vintage and a successful vinification.

{***}{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                  

     {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

This is from Très Girard, Les Cognées and the village section of Chenevery, with the oldest vines aged 80 years. There is deeper clay here and the wine is in a more generous style for Morey. It’s very plush in 2018, but given dimension by a spicy, chunky finish. Drink 2022-2026.

{***}
{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} 

{ratings}

{***}

As is typical, whole bunches make up two-thirds this year, with new oak maintained at around 50%. The vines are almost 85 years old, providing an intensity and elegance to this wine, which has a ferrous and meaty middle, but a beautifully delineated and elegant finish. Drink 2025-2035.

{***}{region}Corton{region}
{color}Red{color}                      

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Like the Aux Thorey the nose is mildly reduced but the underlying fruit seems ripe. There is very good energy to the moderately concentrated flavors that also possess an attractive mid-palate mouthfeel before terminating in a youthfully austere and refreshingly saline-inflected finish. Drink 2033+, Burghound (Apr 2020)

{***}{region} Burgundy {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Vinous:: 91-93/100

[] Burghound:: 91-94/100{ratings}{***}

This is sourced from the domaine’s vineyards on the higher slope, Les Larrets above Lambrays and En la Rue de Vergy above Clos de Tart. With everything de-stemmed, the wine is very perfumed, floral and intense, lifted by evident limestone minerality. No Grand Cru fruit was included this year, nor will there be in the future, says Jacques. Drink 2022-2028.

{***}
{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} 

{ratings}

{***}

Firm reduction knocks down the underlying fruit at present. There is more size and power to the equally mineral-driven flavors that aren't especially dense, though neither are they dilute, while offering outstanding depth and persistence on the notably firm finale. Patience suggested. Drink 2034+, Burghound (Apr 2019)

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color}Red{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}

[] Burghound:: 91-94/100

{ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

 {vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

Sérafin has two plots in this well-regarded Premier Cru, one with 60-year-old vines, the other closer to 40 years old. The purity and delicacy of the vineyard is evident and, given the vineyard’s proximity to both Clos de la Roche and Clos St Denis, there is much elegance in evidence too. Drink 2022-2027.

The harvest was done early and quickly here, starting on 6th September and finished by 12th. Karine Sérafin explained that the estate was harvesting earlier than before, to keep more freshness in the wines, and also working more with leaf coverage. The old vines negated any need to green harvest and yields are up by only 20 percent from 2016, but otherwise Karine and her cousin Frédérique are intent on preserving the individuality of Christian Sérafin’s style for vins de garde, with 100 percent new oak for everything upwards from the Gevrey Vieilles Vignes.

{***}
{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 89-91+/100

{ratings}

{***}

Reduction flattens the nose and renders a proper evaluation impossible. There is excellent phenolic maturity to the very round, even velvety big-bodied flavors that possess a seductive texture before terminating in a powerful and mouth coating finish that is a bit less overtly austere than usual. In fact this is a relatively refined Corton though it is important to underscore that it does not come close to matching the refinement of the Combe d'Orveau. - Burghound

{***}{region}Corton{region}
{color}Red{color}                      {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}

{ratings} [] Burghound:: 92-94/100

[] Vinous:: 90/100

{ratings}

{***}

This is also admirably fresh and pure but the high-toned and airy nose of red pinot fruit and subtle spice notes is even more refined and complements the lilting, graceful and poised medium-bodied flavors that seem to be constructed on a firm base of minerality on the lingering and tension-filled finish. A classic Fuées with its hallmark mild austerity.
Allen Meadows - burghound.com - Jan 2011

{***}{region} Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color} Red{color}                     

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 91/100

[] Burghound:: 91/100

{ratings}

{***}

Domaine Henri Germain is run by Henri's son, Jean-François Germain, who continues to employ traditional organic farming and winemaking. Yields are kept very low and vineyard work is done by hand, and in the winery Jean-François is extremely minimalist. Wines never see more than 20-30% new oak and are almost always bottled unfined and unfiltered. His wines display an incredible richness, complexity, character and depth of flavor that is unequaled in almost all of the region.

{***}{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

An attractively spicy and beautifully layered nose offers up ripe aromas of red berry liqueur, violets, game and warm earth. There is good richness but also good detail to the vibrant middle weight flavors that possess good but not better mid-palate density before culminating in a firm, balanced and admirably long finish where a touch of youthful asperity appears. Note that this beguilingly and elegant wine is on the lighter side for a Clos de Bèze though it's one that should be approachable on the younger side but age well too over the medium-term. Drink 2024+, Burghound (Jan 2017)

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}

{ratings} []Burghound:: 92/100

{ratings}

{***}

A graceful tint of pale purple. Floral, with appealing sweet red fruit, clearly some concentration to the cherry and raspberry fruit, while there is clearly much more to emerge later on.
Jasper Morris MW - Wine Buyer

{***}{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                  

                              {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2013{vintage}{***}

{***}{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}       

    {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2002{vintage}
{ratings}         
[]Burghound:: 93/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 93/100   

{ratings}{***}

At Maison Camille Giroud, a diversity of terroir allows for delicious variety. From perfumed, plush reds to perfumed whites; their precise wines are made from plots all across the famed Côte d’Or – what unites each parcel is a signature precision and character.

Founded in 1865, Maison Camille Giroud began as a specialist négociant. They had a few hectares of their own vines, but the vast majority of their wines were purchased from top-ranked growers across the region. They’d then age these wines in their cellars until they reached peak maturity; sometimes decades later.

{***}{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}1995{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings} {***}

Ben has made just a couple of barrels of this fabulous old-vine Chassagne. The vineyard’s white, stony marl soil sits above a narrow band of bedrock. The wine is expressive, with a heady, exotic bouquet running through to a rich, structured palate which resembles a good Bâtard. Drink 2025-2035. 

{***}{region}Chassagne-Montrachet{region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Vinous:: 90-92/100

[] Jasper Morris MW:: 92-95/100

{ratings}

{***}

Louis shares his cellar with his other half, Ghislaine Barthod , under their home in Chambolle, overlooking Les Feusselottes. He is part of the Boillot family from Volnay, which explains the quantity of his vineyard holdings in the Côte de Beaune.

Since striking out on his own in 2003, he has been able to maximise the potential of his many disparate small parcels – he makes 16 wines from less than seven hectares – many of which are notable for the exceptional age of their vines.

He expanded into Moulin-à-Vent in ’13 and subsequently into Fleurie, fulfilling a long-held ambition. His and Ghislaine’s son Clément is now officially in charge, while Louis focusses on his viticulture. 

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

As Pommards go, Les Pézerolles is rather Volnaysien in style, thanks to its limestone soils which give a more elegant and delicate expression. The fruit here is most definitely red and while there is some structure it is chalkier than a typical Pommard, giving a more accessible and approachable style. Drink 2022-2028.

Winemaker Brian Sieve draws comparisons between the white wines of 2017 and 2014, explaining that the texture, weight and freshness are very similar in both years, although 2017 has perhaps a little more fruit ripeness, along with excellent tension and persistence. He believes that this same freshness and brightness in the reds will provide ageing capacity, pointing out that they worked hard to restrict the yield of Pinot Noir to achieve riper grapes. Overall slightly less whole-bunch fermentation was used as Brian felt the stems and fruit were not as ripe as in richer vintages.

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}        {***}

As Pommards go, Les Pézerolles is rather Volnaysien in style, thanks to its limestone soils which give a more elegant and delicate expression. The fruit here is most definitely red and while there is some structure it is chalkier than a typical Pommard, giving a more accessible and approachable style. Drink 2022-2028.

Winemaker Brian Sieve draws comparisons between the white wines of 2017 and 2014, explaining that the texture, weight and freshness are very similar in both years, although 2017 has perhaps a little more fruit ripeness, along with excellent tension and persistence. He believes that this same freshness and brightness in the reds will provide ageing capacity, pointing out that they worked hard to restrict the yield of Pinot Noir to achieve riper grapes. Overall slightly less whole-bunch fermentation was used as Brian felt the stems and fruit were not as ripe as in richer vintages.

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}        {***}

Yann Durieux has taken care of vineyards of Prieure Roch since 2008 and he began to produce his wine in 2010 with 3ha in Villers-La-Faye, Huates Cotes de Nuits. Yann is first and foremost a producer who looks after nature and seeks for the ways to develop viticulture in balance with the eco-system. He treats his vines with the highest standards of quality, no chemicals of course, and extremely low yields. Vineyards have never been damaged by chemical. Hand picked grapes are fermented with whole bunch with natural yeast, and wines are aged in old barrel. Non SO2 added, non filtered. This totally natural wine making requires taking big risk in Burgundy, but Yann Durieux is boldly pursuing it without compromise and releasing brilliant wines. This pure, delicately extracted, weightless, yet very tasty wine is kind of the most expensive Vin de France, but it is in the same line of finesse as Prieure Roch and Pacalet. These new labels from non classified vineyard suggests further possibility of Burgundy. 

{***}
{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}

{***}

The crop here was small, partly due to hail and partly because of the old vines. This is rich, dark purple with a sensational density of fruit on the nose, huge volumes in the mouth and good oak integration. There’s dark raspberry and some black cherry, with acidity woven in absolutely as it should be. Magical.

Erwan Faiveley believes that 2014 would be regarded as a great vintage – if only 2015 had not come along to trump it. He feels that the changes which have taken place in the cellar since 2007 have had a discernible effect on the quality of Faiveley wines, while similar qualitative changes in the vineyard are only now bearing fruit. Here, balanced but restricted yields are the key.

{***}{region}Corton{region}
{color}Red{color}                      {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate::93/100

{ratings}

{***}

Despite this being a very late season, Patrice compares 2013 to the fruit of early vintages such as 2007 and 2011, but with more stuffing. It also reminds him of 1980, a particularly successful vintage chez Rion. The 2013 crop is a small one though, a touch more than 2012 but less than 2011. They employed two sorting tables, and since the grapes which reached the vats were all healthy, they used less sulphur during vinification.

{***}
{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2013{vintage}

{ratings}
[] Burghound :: 91-94/100

[] Wine Advocate :: 91-93/100

{ratings}

{***}

At Maison Camille Giroud, a diversity of terroir allows for delicious variety. From perfumed, plush reds to perfumed whites; their precise wines are made from plots all across the famed Côte d’Or – what unites each parcel is a signature precision and character.

Founded in 1865, Maison Camille Giroud began as a specialist négociant. They had a few hectares of their own vines, but the vast majority of their wines were purchased from top-ranked growers across the region. They’d then age these wines in their cellars until they reached peak maturity; sometimes decades later.

{***}{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}1978{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings} {***}

This is one of Dominique’s favourites, a vineyard which he says always makes great wines. The nose has a lifted, floral character and some stony reduction. On the front of the palate there is a richness to the peach and citrus fruit, which tightens up into a smoky, toasty and precise finish. Drink 2022-2028.

After the famine of 2016, this year is something of a feast, at least in the case of the reds. Sadly, the whites, which Dominique praises as having excellent clarity, are in slightly smaller volumes than 2016. The good news is that the full range of red wines has been made, and in good volume too. Dominique is effusive in his praise for the 2017 reds, describing them as appealing, with beautiful balance, a lightness of touch, refined tannins and a floral character with stunning red fruit.

{***}{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

Domaine Boisson-Vadot, run by father and son team of Bernard and Pierre Boisson, is one of the rising stars in Mersault. The philosophy of the Domaine revolves around careful, hands-on vineyard management to coax the greatest potential of each vintage out of the various plots, and low-impact winemaking in the cellars that allows the unique terroir of each vineyard to surface. New oak is very minimal, no more than 30% for the top cuvées, and much more restraint in  the village wines and in Bourgogne Blanc.

Pierre Boisson produces a village Meursault from his grandmother’s vineyards (50 year old vines in the lieu-dits of Criots and Perchots) that is hailed an model wine for the appellation. The Domaine also crafts other bottlings, from three of the best lieux à dits in Meursault: Sous la Velle , Grands Charrons (planted in 1988) and Chevalières (planted in 1982). The Chevalières is the most mineral-driven, with a more restraint fruit flavours in its youth but great ageing potential- More like premier crus than village wines. 

{***}{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

 Once again there is just enough wood to point out along with hints of menthol, anise and the sauvage adding breadth to the ripe dark currant scents. As is usually the case, the larger-scaled flavors possess more size and weight if not the same refinement or minerality as the Latricières where the supporting tannins coat the palate on the grippy, serious and youthfully austere finale. This is very definitely and 'buy and forget it somewhere deep in the cellar' wine. Burghound

{***}{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}       

    {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}         
[]Burghound:: 92-95/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 92-94/100   

{ratings}{***}

As usual, older and younger vines are harvested and vinified separately. Tasted apart, the junior wine is lush and very driven by red fruit, the senior partner principally shows the density of old vines. Essayed in a 55-45 young-to-old-vine blend, the dark sweet fruit of the old vines is to the fore but kept mobile by the energy of the young vines. A very impressive double act. Drink 2025-2033.

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 92-94/100{ratings}        {***}

Once again the aromatic expression is quite reserved while being filled with floral nuances that add a touch of elegance to the cool and pure essence of red currant, earth and herbal tea scents. There is excellent intensity to the sleek and mineral-inflected medium weight flavors that possess fine depth and persistence on the very firmly structured finish. Drink 2029+. Burghound (Jan 2020)

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}
[] Vinous:: 90-92/100

[] Burghound:: 90/100

{ratings}

{***}

The estate has nearly a quarter of a hectare here, but suffered a 50 percent loss in 2016. Marvellously intense, this has an ethereal, cool, stone component – a classic character of this vineyard, with a lick of exotic nectarine on the finish. It was matured equally in a mixture of standard and demis, and with more and longer lees contact than usual, to feed the wine’s textural volume. It will need patience. Drink 2022-2032.

{***}{region}Puligny-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}{***}

Having created a name for himself as régisseur (general manager) of Domaine du Comte Armand in Pommard, Benjamin Leroux established, with English backing, a small négociant business based in Beaune since 2007. The range is confined to the Côte d’Or, from Chassagne-Montrachet to Gevrey-Chambertin, with the intention of developing farming contracts or indeed purchasing vineyards in the future.

The possibilities are very exciting for this exceptionally talented vigneron. Benjamin is a master at delivering purity of fruit alongside a seamless texture in his wines which have only the subtlest influence of oak.

{***}{region} Burgundy {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

This comes from the higher (and village appellation) part of the vineyard, mid-hillside and east-facing on very shallow soil over limestone. With lots of bright perfume, there is a delicious redcurrant and juicy edge to this. A clear case of terroir winning over vintage conditions. Drink 2021-2028.

{***}{region}Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}        {***}

A wine which merits its name, this is stony and flinty on the nose, with smoky reduction running the length of the wine. The palate is salty, precise and tangy, with fine, chiselled detail and a pulpy richness to the finish. Drink 2025-2032. 

{***}{region}Puligny-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                            

   {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Domaine Henri Germain is run by Henri's son, Jean-François Germain, who continues to employ traditional organic farming and winemaking. Yields are kept very low and vineyard work is done by hand, and in the winery Jean-François is extremely minimalist. Wines never see more than 20-30% new oak and are almost always bottled unfined and unfiltered. His wines display an incredible richness, complexity, character and depth of flavor that is unequaled in almost all of the region.

{***}{region}Meursault{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

Fresh fruits, pear, peach with integrated oak. Aromas of white flowers moving towards almond, toast and broiche. A complex mouth with good minerality. This wine has many seductive qualities. Intense, lively and generous.

{***}{region}Chassagne-Montrachet{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}

An even spicier and wonderfully expansive nose reflects notes of anise, clove, lavender and violet that suffuse the red and dark pinot fruit scents. The mouthfeel of the big-bodied flavors possess a lovely sense of underlying tension along with good detail and a subtle minerality on the equally firm but somewhat less austere finale. This is slightly more complete and a wine of class and grace though make no mistake, if you wish to see it at its peak, a good deal of patience is advised.  Burghound (Jan 2020)

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} []Burghound:: 93-96/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100

{ratings}

{***}

The vines here were planted just after the Second World War. The lower section is not far from Les Amoureuses, and there is a splendid luxuriance about the palate, but without losing the wine’s elegance. Drink 2022-2029.

{***}{region}Chambolle-Musigny {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                             

  {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

This is the famous Lafarge monopole, right behind the house. Under the clay/gravel topsoil, there is a cushion of limestone before the bedrock. It’s a warmish site and the palate is a little rounder, the fruit a little spicier. But those are not pejorative notes, it just means the wine has a little more volume than the Mitans. Drink 2024-2035.

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                             

  {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{***}

{***}{region} Burgundy {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

Selectively picked from the oldest vines of Clos des Corvées (the name “Clos des Corvées” is reserved exclusively for the first selective pick of “millerandés” grapes), a wine of enormous body and depth.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges{region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

Made from the fruit of a single vineyard (La Dalignère), this is inherently richer and more powerful than Sébastien's other Hautes-Côtes wines and he therefore chooses to raise it in barrel, rather than a combination of barrel and tank. The nose combines lifted floral and berry notes with an engaging earthy, spicy character. It has great concentration and depth of fruit on the palate, so try it with a hearty meat casserole. 

{***}
{region} Côtes de Beaune{region}
{color} Red{color}                      

{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The policy here is to give newly planted vines six or seven years before including their fruit in village level wines or above; this deluxe Bourgogne is a happy consequence. It’s a seamless blend of parcels from Volnay, Gevrey Evocelles, Clos de Thorey and the Hautes-Côtes de Nuits. Juicy and approachable, it’s not short of structure or complexity. Drink 2020-2024. 

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}           {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

Prudhon’s Bourgogne Rouge is an affordable and light-bodied Pinot Noir, made from grapes classified as Bourgogne and situated within the commune of St Aubin. It’s aged entirely in older oak barrels, which lend some subtle spice notes to the bright and pure fruit. The warm 2019 vintage has given the wine a little extra flesh and ripeness, with plenty of juicy, ripe red-berry fruit. This is a very drinkable red Burgundy. Drink now to 2025

{***}{region}Burgundy{region}
{color}Red{color}           {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

This important vineyard in the Hautes-Côtes sits above the main vineyards of Nuits-St Georges. The Rions have access to fruit from vines planted at high density, which controls yield and improves quality. This has a very pretty redcurrant bouquet, with some finesse and good weight on the palate, showing none of the skinniness sometimes found in the Hautes-Côtes. Drink 2021-2027. 

{***}{region} Burgundy {region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}{***}