2013 Clos Vougeot Grand Cru Henri Boillot

Tasted blind. Dark cherry red. Already some evolution on the nose. Masses of bright fruit on the palate. Energetic and charming. An undertow of flattering redcurrant fruit. Clean and fresh. Drink 2020-2030 .

(from a ~.34 ha parcel in Grand Maupertuis). A restrained and discreetly spicy nose features primarily notes of dark berry fruit liqueur and earth scents. There is an unusually refined mouth feel to the powerful, focused and intense medium weight plus flavors that terminate in a youthfully austere finish that exhibits impeccably good balance. This is a lovely example of the appellation that should age well but thanks to the fine grain of the tannins should also be approachable after only a few years of bottle age.

The 2013 Clos Vougeot Grand Cru contains 30% whole-bunch fruit and is matured in 50% new oak. It has a harmonious bouquet that is actually not a million miles away from the Chambertin in style (which can be taken as a complement.) The palate is medium-bodied with a candied, sweet anise- tinged entry, fine tannins and a sorbet-like finish. This is one of the best Clos Vougeot wines that I have tasted, although it will need 4 or 5 years in bottle.

Good bright red. Slightly peppery aromas of spicy red berries and black cherry lifted by a subtle floral topnote. Salty, tactile and concentrated, displaying lovely savory depth and inner-mouth tension. Shows the medicinal quality of classic young Clos Vougeot without any hard edges. Finishes with nicely refined tannins and noteworthy lingering flavor.