90/92

Firm reduction dominates the fruit. There is excellent intensity to the linear, compact and intensely mineral-driven flavors that display firm supporting tannins on the overtly austere, backward and complex finale. This is a classic Clos du Chapitre that should make for a wonderful “winter wine” in 10 years’ time.

88/91

Purchased grapes. Rich dense black purple. Picked early (on the same day as Jean-Nicolas Méo, notes Gilbert). All power rather than grace. Firm tannins behind and rather a chunky structure. I quite like the strawberry/raspberry fruit which emerges behind but overall the balance is less compelling despite the 40% whole bunch vinification.

88/90

The 2020 Fixin Clos du Château 1er Cru, which had finished its malo a month prior to my visit, has a tightly-wound bouquet with a mixture of blue and blackberry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins, here the stems (40%) jutting out a little and these will need to enmesh by the time of botting. I will be prudent with my score for now.