Fine Wine Update 18 10 24
1 case – 6/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine Bonneau du Martray 2007 @ £760 per 6 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £920++) now – photo attached – minor cracked lid
2007 Corton: (from a 1.5 ha parcel in Le Charlemagne). This is notably ripe with cassis, red and blue pinot fruit and touches of animals and earth, both of which are reflected by the concentrated, serious and detailed flavours that possess excellent volume, power and muscle, all wrapped in a long if moderately austere finish. As Morinière noted, this is very Corton yet admirably elegant and pure.
91 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2015+
4 cases – 6/75 Volnay 1er Cru ‘Les Chevrets’, Domaine Henri Boillot 2008 @ £395 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £416++) 2-3 weeks
1 case – 3/150cl Corton Bressandes Grand Cru, Domaine Ponsot 2009 @ £1,575 per 3 MAGS IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £1,995++) now – photo attached – First ever vintage – Bought EP UK
Heavy reduction. By contrast, there is excellent punch and underlying tension to the detailed yet fleshy mineral-inflected Flavors that possess plenty of tannin-buffering dry extract. There is also excellent size and weight on the powerful, beautifully well-balanced, and very firm finish. Despite the overt muscularity, this remains a wine of elegance and refinement.
92-94 points Allen Meadows, Burg hound, Jan 2011, 2024+
2 cases – 6/75cl Volnay 1er Cru ‘Les Caillerets’, Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay 2010 @ £380 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £480++) now – photo attached
3 cases - 12/75cl Mercurey 1er Cru ‘Clos des Myglands’ MONOPOLE, Domaine Faiveley 2010 @ £635 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £960++) now
2010 Mercurey “Clos des Myglands”: (a monopole of Domaine Faiveley). Deep ruby. A similar but distinctly more complex nose complements the equally complex, richer and slightly finer medium-bodied Flavors that possess a bit better phenolic maturity, all wrapped in a generous and naturally sweet finish. I like both the purity and the detail here.
87-90 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2015+
1 case – 6/75cl Volnay 1er Cru ‘Taillepieds’, Domaine Dublere 2010 @ £410 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £560++) now
2010 Volnay “Taillepieds”: Compared to the nose of the Pictures, where the fruit is both redder and cooler and, as one would typically expect, even more, mineral-infused as well. This stony character continues onto the racy, intense, satin-textured Flavors that enjoy plenty of tannin-buffering dry extract on the energetic and tension-filled finish that displays the classic austerity of a young Taillepieds. In a word, impressive.
90-93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2018+
1 case – 6/75cl Volnay 1er Cru ‘Mitans’, Domaine Lafarge 2011 @ £510 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £595++) now – photo attached
2011 Volnay “Mitans”: (from Mitans proper, not l’Ormeau). Here the nose is sufficiently reduced that it is hard to read though the underlying fruit appears ripe. There is a supremely elegant mouth feel to the silky and lacy Flavors that dance across the palate before culminating in an ultra-pure, long, and well-balanced finish. This is one very classy effort that is textbook Mitans.
91-93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2019+
2 cases – 3/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2011 @ £6,695 per 3 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £7,700++) now – C&B stock – bought EP stored Octavian
2011 Corton: (from parcels measuring .57 ha in Clos du Roi, 1.2 ha in Bressandes and .5 ha in Renardes). Quite deeply coloured. This is notably ripe with a completely different aromatic profile that is distinctly floral and sauvage along with plenty of earth nuances to the dark berry fruit liqueur suffused nose. There is excellent richness to the velvety and well-detailed bigbodied flavors that possess fine power and impressive length. This is not an especially massive wine by the standards of the appellation but it’s well-balanced and should age well.
92 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2023+
4 cases – 6/75 Volnay 1er Cru ‘Les Chevrets’, Domaine Henri Boillot 2012 @ £390 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £401++) 2-3 weeks
2 cases – 6/75 Volnay 1er Cru ‘Clos des Chenes’, Domaine Potinet-Ampeau 2012 @ £330 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £395++) now – Bargain Chenes
2 cases – 3/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2013 @ £7,995 per 3 IB & OWC now – photo attached – C&B stock – bought EP stored Octavian
2013 Corton: (from parcels measuring .57 ha in Clos du Roi, 1.2 ha in Bressandes and .5 ha in Renardes; de Villaine noted that for the time being only two-thirds of the vines are being included in this blend and that the new wood percentage had been reduced to 50% in 2013). A very fresh and expressive nose features notes of dried flowers, pungent earth, plum, dark berries and plenty of the sauvage. I was impressed by the texture of the broad-shouldered and muscular Flavors that possess very good volume and ample punch on the complex, balanced and impressively persistent finish. This cuvée is definitely improving as the viticultural changes have been implemented and it’s not hard to believe that it won’t be too long before the Corton catches, if not necessarily surpasses, the Ech in terms of wine quality. This is more impressive than it might otherwise seem because the Echézeaux has itself made significant progress over the last 5 vintages.
92 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2028+
1 case – 3/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2014 @ £7,795 per 3 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £8,200++) now – C&B stock – bought EP stored Octavian
2014 Corton: (from parcels measuring .57 ha in Clos du Roi, 1.2 ha in Bressandes and .5 ha in Renardes though only 1.74 ha of this are currently in production). A notably floral nose consists of ripe plum, spice and plenty of earth while being trimmed in all-but-invisible oak. There is good power and muscle to the generously proportioned and notably rich big-bodied flavors that culminate in a robust finish that offers fine depth and length. This is not as concentrated as the best here but it’s clear that the vineyard work continues to push the quality level forward each year.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2026+
1 case – 12/75cl Corton ‘Marechaudes’ Grand Cru, Domaine Chandon de Briailles 2014 @ £845 per 12 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £1,295++) now – photo attached – 2022 £1,790 per 12
Here too, there is enough reduction present to prevent an examination of the nose but I did note that floral elements are evident. There is outstanding volume and good phenolic maturity to the round, velvety and overtly powerful middle weight plus Flavors that possess a firm core of tannins on the mouth coating, dusty and impressively persistent finish. This is a serious Corton where patience will also be required.
90-93 points, Allen Meadows, burghound.com, 2026+
4 cases – 6/75cl Volnay 1er Cru ‘Fremiets’, Domaine Henri Boillot, Burgundy 2014 @ £390 per 6 bottles IB & OC 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl St Aubin 1er Cru ‘Derriere La Tour’ Rouge, Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet, Burgundy 2014 @ £195 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl St Aubin 1er Cru ‘Derriere La Tour’ Rouge, Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet, Burgundy 2015 @ £195 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl Chassagne Montrachet ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Rouge, Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet, Burgundy 2015 @ £235 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl Chassagne Montrachet ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Rouge, Domaine Marc Colin, Burgundy 2015 @ £195 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl Santenay ‘Les Champs Claude’ VV, Domaine Marc Colin, Burgundy 2015 @ £195 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Volnay 1er Cru ‘Champans’, Domaine Marquis D’Angerville 2015 @ £550 per 6 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £565-£675++) now
This is the first wine to exhibit enough oak to warrant mentioning though it's not so much to dominate the spicy and earth black cherry liqueur-like aromas. The sleek middle weight plus Flavors are shaped by the fine but dense tannins that carry over to the exquisitely well-balanced and impressively persistent finish. This is an exercise in harmony and grace that should be approachable after 6 to 8 years if desired. Outstanding.
93-95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, 2027+.
2 cases – 3/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2015 @ £7,195 per 3 IB & OWC now – C&B stock – bought EP stored Octavian
2015 Corton: (from parcels measuring .57 ha in Clos du Roi, 1.2 ha in Bressandes and .5 ha in Renardes though only 1.74 ha of this are currently in production). A ripe but reasonably fresh array mixes both red currant and dark berry aromas that are liberally laced with notes of various floral, sauvage and earth nuances. There is first-rate volume and power to the serious, intense and overtly muscular big-bodied Flavors that coat the palate with dry extract on the robust, moderately rustic and impressively long finish. To my way of viewing the progression made by this wine since the first vintage under the Domaine’s auspices in 2009, this is beginning to resemble a true Corton. I would expect that as the different system of viticulture and replanting to higher quality vines begins to have their inevitable effects that this will continue to improve. Note that while this is certainly a big and structured wine, it’s not so youthfully backward that it won’t be approachable relatively young, at least in the context of what is typical for a classic Corton.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2027+
2 cases – 3/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2016 @ £6,595 per 3 IB & OWC now – C&B stock – bought EP stored Octavian
2016 Corton: (from parcels measuring .57 ha in Clos du Roi, 1.2 ha in Bressandes and .5 ha in Renardes though only 1.74 ha of this are currently in production; yields of 22 hl/ha). Ripe, fresh and restrained aromas of red and dark currant and a variety of spice elements combine with intensely floral, earthy and sauvage-inflected nuances. I very much like the texture of the delicious medium-bodied Flavors that possess good power and plenty of minerality that deliver excellent depth and length on the balanced finish that really fans out as it sits on the palate. While there is a mild hint of backend warmth, this could eventually well be the best Corton that the Domaine has produced.
94 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2031+
2 cases – 12/75cl Pommard ‘Les Perrieres’, Domaine Launay-Horiot 2016 @ £560 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £650 loose++) 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl Chassagne Montrachet ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Rouge, Domaine Marc Colin, Burgundy 2016 @ £195 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl St Aubin 1er Cru ‘Derriere La Tour’ Rouge, Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet, Burgundy 2016 @ £195 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl Chassagne Montrachet ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Rouge, Domaine Jean-Claude Bachelet, Burgundy 2016 @ £235 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Corton Grand Cru ‘Le Clos du Roi’, Lucien Le Moine 2016 @ £760 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £822 loose++) 2-3 weeks
2 cases – 6/75cl Corton Grand Cru ‘Renardes’, Lucien Le Moine 2017 @ £735 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £833 loose++) 2-3 weeks
3 cases – 6/75cl Pommard 1er Cru ‘Rugiens’, Domaine Joseph Voillot 2017 @ £435 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £446-510++) 2-3 weeks
2 cases – 3/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2017 @ £6,195 per 3 IB & OWC now - C&B stock – bought EP stored Octavian
2017 Corton: (from parcels measuring .57 ha in Clos du Roi, 1.2 ha in Bressandes and .5 ha in Renardes though only 1.74 ha of this are currently in production). A ripe, fresh and layered nose combines notes of plum, spice, earth and plenty of floral influences. There is fine richness to the relatively supple middle weight flavors that possess a velvety mid-palate mouthfeel along with reasonable if not special density, all wrapped in a youthfully austere, balanced and sneaky long finish where a hints of warmth and sweetness eventually emerge. This minerally effort needs to develop better depth but the potential appears to be present for that to occur.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2029+
3 cases – 6/75cl Corton Grand Cru ‘Le Rognet’, Domaine Taupenot-Merme 2018 @ £660 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £700-£900++) 2-3 weeks
2018 Corton-Rognets: This too evidences just a hint of volatile acidity that also serves to add a bit of lift to the liqueur-like aromas of plum, cassis and port. The exceptionally rich, full-bodied and tautly muscular Flavors brim with palate soaking dry extract that also buffers the exceptionally firm tannic spine shaping the powerful, serious and impressively long finish where the only nit is a hint of warmth. While not exactly a classically styled Corton, it does have the typical size, weight and punch of one.
91-93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound/2033+
2 cases – 3/75cl Corton Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2018 @ £6,695 per 3 IB & OWC now - C&B stock – bought EP stored Octavian
2018 Corton: (from parcels measuring .57 ha in Clos du Roi, 1.2 ha in Bressandes and .5 ha in Renardes though only 1.74 ha of this are currently in production). A notably ripe yet still fresh nose speaks of liqueur-like aromas of plum, black cherry and plenty of earth and floral nuances and in particular violet. The cool, sleek and intense broad-shouldered Flavors possess a velvety, even seductive, mid-palate mouthfeel along with good power on the stony, complex and solidly persistent finish where the only nit is a hint of warmth. The supporting tannins are ripe and firm and sufficiently dense that this will likely need 15 to 18 years to reach full maturity.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound/2033+
2 cases – 6/75cl Volnay 1er Cru ‘Santenots du Milieu’, Domaine Arnaud Ente 2018 @ £795 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £1,220++) now
2018 Volnay “Les Santenots du Milieu”: (from vines planted in 1992). Discreet wood frames very ripe yet still agreeably fresh aromas of cassis, black cherry, violet and plenty of spice elements. The sleek, refined and mouth coating medium-bodied Flavors exude a subtle minerality while displaying excellent depth on the sneaky long finish. This is a relatively forward example of Santenots that could be approached on the younger side thanks to the abundance dry extract.
90-93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2026+
6 cases – 6/75cl Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru, Domaine Comte Armand 2018 @ £195 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £198-£246++) 2-3 weeks
7 cases – 6/75cl Pommard 1er Cru ‘Les Chaponnieres’, Domaine Launay-Horiot 2019 @ £325 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £335++) 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl Pommard 1er Cru ‘Charmots’, Domaine Ballot-Millot 2019 @ £250 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
2 cases – 6/75cl Aloxe-Corton 1er Cru ‘La Toppe Au Vert’, Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair 2019 @ £360 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £406++) 2-3 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Aloxe-Corton 1er Cru ‘La Toppe Au Vert’, Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair 2020 @ £370 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £412++) 2-3 weeks
11 cases – 6/75cl Beaune 1er Cru ‘Clos du Roi’, Domaine Tawse 2020 @ £215 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £252-£273++) 2-3 weeks
6 cases – 6/75cl Beaune 1er Cru ‘Tuvilains’, Domaine Tawse 2020 @ £200 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £192 loose++) 2-3 weeks
17 cases – 6/75cl Beaune 1er Cru ‘Epenottes’, Domaine Ballot-Millot 2020 @ £210 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £235-£310++) 2-3 weeks
9 cases – 6/75cl Volnay 1er Cru ‘Les Champans’, Domaine Joseph Voillot 2020 @ £310 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £312-£400++) 2-3 weeks
8 cases – 6/75cl Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru ‘Abbaye de Morgeot’, Domaine Fleurot-Larose 2020 @ £360 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £506 loose++) 6-8 weeks
5 cases – 6/75cl Pommard 1er Cru ‘Les Chaponnieres’, Domaine Launay-Horiot 2020 @ £310 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £312++) 2-3 weeks
27 cases – 6/75cl Pommard ‘Les Perrieres’, Domaine Launay-Horiot 2020 @ £210 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £215-£230++) 2-3 weeks
9 cases – 12/75cl Pommard ‘Les Perrieres’, Domaine Launay-Horiot 2020 @ £395 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £430-£460++) 2-3 weeks
4 cases – 6/75cl Pommard 1er Cru ‘Clos de la Commaraine’ MONOPOLE, Domaine de la Commaraine 2021 @ £775 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £792-£1000++) 6-8 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Corton Bressandes Grand Cru, Domaine Gaston & Pierre Ravaut 2021 @ £320 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £415++) now – Bargain Grand Cru – photo attached
4 cases – 6/75cl Pommard 1er Cru ‘Clos des Epeneaux’ MONOPOLE, Domaine Comte Armand 2022 @ £665 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £675++) 2-3 weeks
7 cases – 6/75cl Pommard 1er Cru ‘Charmots’, Domaine Ballot-Millot 2022 @ £325 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £369++) 2-3 weeks
1 case – 12/75cl Beaune 1er Cru ‘Les Greves’ TVV , Domaine Dugat-Py 2022 @ £1,495 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £1,558 loose++) 6-8 weeks
1 case – 12/75cl Pommard ‘Les Vaumuriens Hauts’ TVV , Domaine Dugat-Py 2022 @ £1,475 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £1,762 loose++) 6-8 weeks
2 cases – 12/75cl Monthelie TVV, Domaine Dugat-Py 2022 @ £710 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £755 loose++) 6-8 weeks
1 case – 12/75cl Aloxe Corton ‘Les Paulands’ VV , Domaine Dugat-Py 2022 @ £775 per 12 IB & OC 6-8 weeks – First vintage
1 case - 6/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 1995 @ £17,395 per 6 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £19,995++) now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – photo attached
Light but not total bricking. There is a hint of stems on the otherwise attractively spicy and perfumed aromas of secondary red berry fruit nuances and sandalwood hints. The medium-bodied Flavors possess plenty of vibrancy and solid mid-palate concentration while being supported by largely if not completely resolved tannins on the lingering finish. For my taste this is drinking about as well as it's going to yet as I suggest my sense is that this should hold at this mature level for many years to come. In sum, this is not a genuinely great DRC RSV but I quite like it. Tasted multiple times with mostly consistent notes that have varied between 92 and 93 points.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Apr 2017
1 case – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 1995 @ £10,195 per 3 IB & OWC6 now – photo attached – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – 3 bottles in original OWC6 – photos available
This too is reserved and restrained with an almost completely closed nose that reveals only glimpses of fresh black fruit even after extended aeration. The Flavors however are rich and offer excellent detail and are underpinned by dense yet ripe tannins and good extract. I very much like the style of this though it is clearly for the patient and I suspect this will always have a rather strict personality. This has put on a bit of weight and a bit of richness since the big Richebourg tasting in '01 and appears to be better balanced than the prior bottle but otherwise, it is quite similar.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Nov 2003, 2010+
1 case – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 1997 @ £10,195 per 3 IB & OWC6 now – photo attached – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – 3 bottles in original OWC6 – sequential numbers
An expressive nose amply reflects the ripeness of the '97 vintage with its floral and spicy black berry fruit aromas that are both elegant and refined while transitioning into rich, sweet and full-bodied Flavors that possess good muscle and solid if not sensational depth and length. In sum, this is a quality '97 that should benefit from another 5 or so years in the cellar.
92 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2008, 2012+
1 case – 6/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 1998 @ £22,495 per 6 IB & OWC (SIB) (Lowest Wine Searcher £24,500-£25,995++) now – photo attached – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
Young Richebourg can often be quite tight and reserved but this was quite expressive with soy, hoison and black pinot fruits and a multilayered flavour profile of good intensity, detail and exceptional length. Very concentrated with medium sized tannins.
94 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2001
1 case – 6/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 1999 @ £32,995 per 6 IB & OWC (SIB) (Lowest Wine Searcher £39,995++) now – photos attached – rare original case bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
This hasn't budged much since it was bottled and remains almost opaque with a notably ripe and gorgeously multidimensional nose of black cherries, spice and earth. The broad-shouldered and impressively scaled medium-weight-plus Flavors are bold and overtly muscular, while the finish retains a sense of robust power and stunning length. At age 17 the '99 Richebourg is clearly signalling that it's going to require 20 to 25 years to really be at its peak. At the same time, there is sufficient mid-palate sap to at least make it approachable sooner, perhaps in seven to 10 years. In my view 1999 is one of the great vintages for this fabled wine. Many, and consistent, notes save for one bottle that displayed an annoying amount of brett.
96 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Apr 2017, 2024+
I was blown away by the 1999 Richebourg, an extraordinary, dense ruby/purple-coloured offering. It boasts a magnificent perfume of framboise, blackberries, and currants as well as a sweet, buttery woody component underlying black and red fruit Flavors kissed by toasty oak. In the mouth, gamy, fleshy characteristics intertwined with violets, licorice, and black fruits is liqueur-like. Ripe, rich, and dense, with spectacular purity and equilibrium, this mind-boggling effort should be at its peak in 2-4 years, and last for 15-20.
100 points Robert Parker, Hedonists Gazette, Oct 2003
1 case - 6/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2000 @ £17,495 per 6 IB & OWC 2-3 weeks – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – some tissue-stained labels – photos available
(Opened from personal storage). Some light bricking though with a deep ruby core. There is a suggestion of sous-bois lurking in the background of the mostly secondary nose of ripe dark berry pinot fruit, plenty of spice and hints of dried rose petal and sandalwood. I very much like the texture and verve to the strikingly complex medium weight flavors that exhibit fine length on the balanced finale. For my taste this has just now arrived at its peak though it should be capable of holding here for many years to come. Tasted a number of times over the years and while I have had largely consistent experiences, there was one bottle that was quite badly reduced and required several hours of aeration.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Mar 2023, now+
1 case – 6/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2000 @ £21,995 per 6 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £25,350-£26,495++) now – photo attached – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
An exuberately spicy and notably ripe nose displays discreet notes of torrefaction and roasted espresso beans on the overtly floral-suffused aromas. The muscular Flavors are supported by ripe tannins and plenty of minerality, which carry over to the dusty, complex and solidly long finish. This is really quite regal and in 2000 it's more of a middle weight than its normal massive and quite firmly structured character. For my taste, this is nearly ready and should only need another 3 to 5 years to arrive at its apogee. Tasted multiple times with largely consistent notes.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Mar 2019, 2023+
1 case - 6/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2002 @ £18,595 per 6 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – photo attached
This hadn't come my way since 2009 in large format though I have a more recent note from 750 ml herein. The nose remains highly aromatic, indeed almost kaleidoscopic in the sheer breadth of aromas but it's the spice that is so remarkable cut with floral and stem hints that add depth. The medium-bodied flavours are quite fine with beautiful detail; indeed, they are chiselled and have a drop-dead gorgeous velvety texture that is soft in the middle yet still moderately firm on the exceptionally long, if ever-so-mildly bitter finish. The overall character is discreet and understated and in classic RSV fasion, this is built along the lines of elegance and finesse. In large format, this is still on the way up and I would suggest holding it for another 8 to 10 years.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Mar 2023
1 case – 1/150cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2002 @ £9,995 per 1 MAGNUM IB & re-packed C&B carton (Lowest Wine Searcher £13,395++) now – photo attached– bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – split allocation 3 magnum case
(Fashioned with <70% whole clusters). I had not tried the '02 Riche in several years so it was interesting to see how it's progressing. The expressive though very cool nose is finally beginning to display the initial hints of maturity with the classic dried rose petal and spice nuances adding both elegance and breadth to the pretty mix of red fruit and plum scents. There is a beguiling mouth feel to the intensely mineral-driven broad-shouldered Flavors that are at once powerful but sleek, all wrapped in a muscular and palate staining finish. The refined palate impression is considerably enhanced by the dense but extremely fine tannins, in fact so much so that while this is still very clearly on the way up it could actually be drunk now with pleasure. That said I would still strongly advise holding this strikingly pretty effort for another 6 to 10 years first. I should note that while I have had relatively consistent notes over the years, occasionally I land on a bottle that seems herbaceous and almost vegetal; why this variation occurs isn't clear but nonetheless it does happen.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Oct 2016, 2020+
1 case - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2003 @ £9,795 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
1 case - 6/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2003 @ £19,495 per 6 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
(With thanks to Pat Dukes). This is surprisingly fresh and elegant with its pretty floral and overtly spicy notes that add nuance to the ripe but not roasted black fruit aromas. While clearly well-concentrated and powerful there is fine precision, refinement and purity to the strikingly complex and vibrant Flavors that are supple on the mid-palate but quite firm on the finish. There is the barest trace of warmth but it's a background note and overally this is superbly classy juice. In the context of what is typical for the DRC RSV this is a big but stylish wine that should live for years, indeed it is still very much on the way up - patience! Note that in July 2017 I had a bottle that displayed noticeable brett and it was enough to detract from the overall sense of freshness.
94 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jul 2016
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2004 @ £8,295 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – photo attached
A deft touch of wood frames exuberantly expressive and luxurious black fruit nose nuanced by a huge range of spices including anise, clove and cinnamon with notes of tea and hoisin as well. The moderately full Flavors are sappy, rich and sweet with ample volume and a palate drenching finish that benefits from an underlying sense of vibrancy. There is real energy here, which seems to collect and focus the flavours. There is a mild trace of dryness though it's presently not enough to upset the balance materially. Overall, this is terrific stuff and exceptionally long with virtually no trace of vegetal character on either the nose or the finish.
92 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jun 2009, 2016+
1 case – 1/150cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2004 @ £7,995 per 1 MAGNUM IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
1 case – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2004 @ £10,195 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
This is in the same stylistic camp as the Grands Echézeaux as it is surprisingly understated and subtle with an intensely floral nose of red and black fruit aromas that are nuanced and beautifully elegant, merging seamlessly into linear, reserved, indeed almost brooding Flavors that are as once supple yet precise and detailed, all wrapped in a powerful and muscular finish that delivers striking length. This is a really interesting wine because it's a wine of contrasts yet it works because there is a gorgeous combination of finesse and power and again, I really like the sense of drive and energy here as well as the first rate balance. A terrific '04.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 07, 2016+
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2005 @ £9,995 per 3 IB & OWC now – photo attached – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
(With thanks to Henry Tang). An incredibly perfumed and supremely elegant if notably ripe nose features notes of various black fruit scents that are replete with soy, hoisin, clove and anise nuances. There is outstanding power and richness to the refined, detailed and still quite firmly structured Flavors that culminate in a precise, pure and driving finish that goes on and on. This is a really impressive effort that offers terrific potential but fans of this wine should note that it is arguably more masculine than it usually is yet at the same time utterly seamless. In sum this is arguably the finest RSV that the Domaine has ever produced though one that is indisputably going to require extended aging. Tasted twice in 2019 with similar notes.
97 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Mar 2019, 2030+
1 case - 2/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2005 @ £7,695 per 2 IB & OWC2 (Lowest Wine Searcher £8,495-£8,966++) now – photos available – Rare 2 pack OWC, sequential bottles
Initially this was quite firmly reduced, though after 15 minutes or so of aeration, vigorous swirling coaxes ripe but fresh and superbly elegant aromas that include red, black, blue and violet scents as well as seemingly a full cupboard of Asian spices to reveal themselves. The robust, extremely rich, full-bodied and naturally sweet flavors are quite floral on the palate and culminate in a detailed and immensely long finish where the tannic spine is firm but not hard. For now this is definitely a wine to leave buried in the back of your cellar but when it is finally ready, it's going to be brilliant.
97 points Allen Meadows, Burghound (3/2019)
1 case - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2006 @ £7,195 per 3 IB & re-packed carton 2-3 weeks – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
(With thanks to Pat Dukes). An elegant, fresh, ripe and still quite restrained yet overtly spicy nose displays notes that run toward the plum and blue berry side of the fruit spectrum along with plenty of floral nuances. The solidly-structured and very serious middle weight flavors possess good density and punch before culminating in a still youthfully austere finish that delivers very fine depth and length on the linear, precise and balanced. In terms of drinkability this is still very much on the way up and while it is certainly interesting to see how a wine like the '06 RSV is developing, it is still much too early to be cracking any bottles and indeed I would not suggest doing so for at least another 6 to 10 years. Tasted several times with consistent notes except for one bottle that displayed a touch of brett on the nose but not on the finish.
94 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jul 2016, 2023+
1 case – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2006 @ £9,395 per 3 IB & OWC6 now – photos attached – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – 3 bottles in original OWC6 – sequential numbers
This is initially quite fragrant and expressive but the longer that the wine sat in the glass the more it progressively shut down and a great deal of swirling was necessary to liberate the mostly red berry fruit aromas that are liberally laced with a broad range of spice and floral elements, in particular rose petal. The broad-shouldered flavors possess a beguiling texture even though the supporting structure makes itself felt very quickly on the firm but not hard finish that goes on and on. While this is still clearly extremely young 2006 is one of the few vintages of the DRC Richebourg with less than 15 years of age that could be reasonably approached now though I stress that there is still considerable upside development potential remaining. In a word, terrific. Tasted thrice in the several years with consistent results. Note that the last bottle was decanted for one hour in advance and while it was still very youthful, it was also reasonably accessible.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Apr 2017, 2026+
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2007 @ £8,595 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
(With thanks to Joe Wong and Bonnie Wai). A maturing and ultra-elegant, pure and quite delicately fruited nose is exceptionally spicy and floral in character. The refined and seductively textured, detailed and delineated middle weight flavors possess laser-like focus on the energetic, complex and strikingly long finish. This is an unqualified success for the 2007 vintage and I was seriously impressed with its overall sense of harmony, grace and class. Note that this is already drinking well though I would be inclined to hold it for a few more years first.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Aug 2020, 2025+
1 case – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2007 @ £9,995 per 3 IB & OWC (SIB) now – photo available – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
A much more restrained, even taciturn nose that is actually quite ripe, spicy, fresh and diaphanous features primarily floral infused red berry, mineral and Asian spice aromas that merge gracefully into supple, round and tautly muscled broad-shouldered flavors that are almost as pure as those of the RSV, all wrapped in a detailed, focused and almost painfully intense finish brimming with minerality and striking length. This is a karate champion of a wine that isn't especially big but the power and authority of the punch is hard to believe. I suspect that despite the fact that the '07 Riche will not be a long-distance runner by the standards that are typical here, this will be a late bloomer in terms of permitting a true assessment of its character and potential, meaning at least a decade.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2010, 2021+
1 case - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2008 @ £7,895 per 3 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £9,000-£10,000++) 2-3 weeks – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – photo attached
As one would reasonably expect, this is notably more elegant with a pure, delicate and layered nose of floral notes, in particular rose and violet, along with clove, anise and sandalwood nuances that gracefully introduce rich, forward and generous flavors that retain a wonderful sense of tension, detail and refinement on the precise, textured and focused finish that offers tremendous length. For all its considerable attributes however, this remains an understated wine of harmony, grace and impeccable balance. A stunner of a wine.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2011, 2026+
1 case - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2010 @ £10,195 per 3 IB & OWC now– bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
2010 Romanée St. Vivant: (this vineyard is presently divided into fourths by the Domaine and one section is never used, another is always used and the remaining two are evaluated and added or not as quality dictates; generally the amount held out amounts to 1.5 ha). All that I could think when I first put my nose in the glass was “wow!” as the airy and very cool nose of ultra-elegant spice, floral and herbal nuances greeted me. Add to this plenty of attractive nuances to the kaleidoscopically layered red currant and plum suffused aromas and you have something pretty special. This is, not surprisingly, much more refined than the Grands Ech as the supporting tannins on the silky middle weight flavors are extremely fine-grained yet notably dense as the explosive finish is quite firm. Despite the tightly wound structure the overall impression of the mouth feel is one of delicacy and ultimate refinement. This should be a particularly excellent vintage for what has become one of the stars of this gorgeously deep portfolio of wines.
96 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2025+
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2011 @ £9,195 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
This is certainly one of, if not the, most floral wine in the range in 2011 with the possible exception of the Richebourg. The extraordinarily elegant and airy nose is positively kaleidoscopic in its sheer breadth of spice elements that combine with the stunningly pure red and black raspberry fruit aromas that are liberally laced with rose petal nuances. The lacy, intense and beautifully precise middle weight flavors are harmonious and impeccably well-balanced on the fabulously long and silky finish where a touch of youthful asperity is present. This should be terrific in time.
94 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2014, 2026+
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2012 @ £9,495 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
This is notably more elegant with its pure and exquisitely perfumed and markedly floral nose that displays a huge array of Vosne-style spice elements along with a trace of oak. There is an ultra-refined mouth feel to the equally pure, intense, detailed and lilting medium-bodied flavors that appear to possess a bit more volume than usual before culminating in a penetrating and intense finish that is also quite compact and linear at present. The underlying reserves of dry extract are undeniably deep and buffer well the firm but not hard tannic spine and overall, this is a wine of grace and harmony. It's interesting as the mouth feel is light, indeed almost delicate yet the flavor authority is remarkable; it is the epitome of what I like to describe as power without weight.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2015, 2027+
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2013 @ £8,195 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
Here the subtly oaked nose is not only more expressive but more floral and perfumed as well with its elegant and airy array of highly spiced red currant, herbal tea and sandalwood scents. There is a silky texture to the wonderfully precise, tight, intense and vibrant medium weight flavors that possess really lovely good complexity, all wrapped in a gorgeously persistent finale.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2016, 2030+
1 case – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2013 @ £9,395 per 3 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £10,250++) now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – photo attached – Liv-Ex last trade £9,395 – 15th Oct
2013 Richebourg: A distinctly cool and restrained nose is comprised by notes of both red and dark currant, cinnamon, violet, Pekoe tea, clove, hoisin and noticeable wood treatment. The imposingly-scaled, concentrated and almost painfully intense mineral-driven flavors possess a beguiling inner mouth perfume that continues onto the robust, earthy, dusty and moderately austere finish that, somewhat curiously, is noticeably shorter than usual. This dense, structured and ultra-serious effort feels as though it is only beginning to take shape and as such my score offers the benefit of the doubt that this will come together with time in bottle of which I underscore that plenty will be required.
94 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2033+
1 case - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2014 @ £7,595 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
2014 Romanée St. Vivant: A deft but not invisible application of wood sets off the airy, cool and strikingly elegant nose that is composed by notes of both red and dark currant, a wide range of floral and spice elements as well as Asian-style tea scents. The refined and caressing middle weight flavors possess a sleek and cool mouth feel while retaining good definition on the firm but well-balanced and sneaky long finish that exhibits a bit less finesse than usual even if it is still quite fine.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound/2029+
2 cases – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2014 @ £9,695 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
2014 Richebourg: This is perhaps the most floral wine in the range in 2014 plus it’s even spicier than the RSV if not the La Tâche with its rose petal, violet, lilac, Asian spice, sandalwood, dark berry liqueur and lavender-scented nose. Not surprisingly this is both bigger and richer than the RSV with excellent muscle and intensity to the mineral-driven broad-shouldered flavors that deliver stunningly good complexity on the impressively concentrated but seamlessly well-balanced finale that really fans out as it sits on the palate. While this is certainly robust, the 2014 Riche displays a bit more refinement than usual at this early stage of its development.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2034+
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2015 @ £9,195 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
2015 Romanée St. Vivant: This is more restrained still though aggressive swirling eventually coaxes the gorgeously broad-ranging nose to reveal an even more floral and spicier mélange of red and dark currant, Asian-style tea, anise, clove, cinnamon and sandalwood scents. The equally pure, naturally sweet, precise and beautifully detailed medium-bodied flavors maintain their focus from the mid-palate to the dazzlingly long and palate staining linear finish that just goes on and on. However, as silky as the palate impression is, there is plenty of supporting structure and this too is going to require a long snooze in a cold cellar before it will be completely ready for prime time. Textbook RSV.
96 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2030+
3 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2016 @ £9,195 per 3 IB & OWC (SIB) now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian – photo attached
A more restrained and cooler nose reflects super-fresh and floral-inflected aromas of exceptionally spicy red and dark currant, violet, plum and tea. There is a highly refined mouthfeel to the almost lacy yet concentrated middle weight flavors that possess first-rate complexity on the balanced and wonderfully persistent if youthfully austere finish. This crunchy effort is class in a glass with its emphasis on finesse which is quite different from the evident power and punch of the Corton. Textbook built-to-age RSV.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2019, 2034+
2 cases - 3/75cl Romanee St Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2017 @ £7,595 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
2017 Romanée St. Vivant: (from an incredible 5.29 ha holding). A markedly floral and very finely nuanced nose almost timidly reflects notes of rose petal, violet, red currant, sandalwood, tangerine peel and a whisper of anise. The sleek and strikingly refined medium-bodied flavors culminate in a sneaky long if decidedly compact and quite serious finish that is presently on the youthfully austere side. This is an exercise in lace and grace though not one without plenty of punch.
94 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2032+
1 case – 3/75cl Richebourg Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanee Conti 2017 @ £9,695 per 3 IB & OWC now – bought EP C&B stock stored Octavian
2017 Richebourg: (from a holding of 3.51 ha in both Richebourg proper and Les Verroilles). A discreet application of wood frames the even more complex and spicier nose of relatively high-toned, cool and airy aromas of red berries, violet, rose petal, orange pekoe tea and a hint of leather. The sleek, intense and sophisticated middle weight plus flavors brim with both minerality and dry extract that buffers the slightly firmer tannic spine shaping the hugely long, powerful and beautifully harmonious finale. It would be fair to observe that this isn’t the most concentrated Richebourg the Domaine has ever produced but it is one that should age effortlessly on its balance. In sum, this is a highly refined and elegant Riche with a positively gorgeous mouthfeel.
95 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2035+
1 case – 12/75cl Nuits St Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Boudots’ VV, Domaine Jean Tardy 2002 @ £1,895 per 12 IB & OC 2-3 weeks – photo attached – mature original case
1 case – 12/75cl Nuits St Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Murgers’, Domaine Hudelot-Noellat 2005 @ £2,275 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £2,325 loose++) 2-3 weeks
Noticeable but moderate wood spice frames the ripe highly complex mix of earthy dark fruit and underbrush aromas that can also be found on the robust, pure and intense flavors that display a distinct gaminess on the textured and hugely long, powerful and dusty finish supported by ripe tannins and superb balance. First rate potential here and highly recommended.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound (1/2008)
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits St Georges 1er Cru ‘Aux Thorey’, Domaine Sylvain Cathiard 2006 @ £1,795 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
1 case - 12/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Vaucrains’, Domaine Bertrand Ambroise 2010 @ £695 per 12 IB & OC now
2010 Nuits St. Georges “Vaucrains”: (from 50+ year old vines aged in 100% new wood). A generously oaked nose fights a bit with the otherwise quite ripe aromas of cassis, plum, earth and that hallmark animale nuance of a classic Vaucrains. The broad-shouldered flavors possess exceptionally good richness with excellent mid-palate concentration, all wrapped in a powerful and palate saturating finish. This profound effort delivers outstanding length and the underlying material is so strong that it should be able to eventually integrate the wood.
91-93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2018+
1 case – 12/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘Les Chaliots’, Domaine Michel Gros 2011 @ £400 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £410++) 2-3 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Marsannay Rose, Domaine Bruno Clair 2014 @ £60 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £180++) now – photo attached
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Clos de la Marechale’ MONOPOLE, Domaine J-F Mugnier 2014 @ £760 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £825-£900++) 2-3 weeks
2014 Nuits St. Georges “Clos de la Maréchale”: A perfumed and once again cool and airy nose displays notes of red currant, cherry and warm earth. There is excellent intensity to the energetic middle weight flavors that possess good precision on the firm and dusty but not really rustic finish that delivers excellent persistence. This balanced effort is a bit more structured than it typically is and will definitely require a few years before it will be approachable.
91 points Allen Meadows, Burghound/2022+
2 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Pruliers’, Domaine Henri Gouges 2014 @ £325 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
6 cases – 6/75cl Bourgogne Hautes Cotes de Nuits ‘Cuvee Maelie’, Domaine Jean Tardy 2016 @ £85 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £135-£215++) now - 2021 £165++
2016 Bourgogne – Hautes Côtes de Nuits Cuvée Maëlie: A ripe and agreeably fresh nose reflects notes of plum, dark currant and plenty of earth character. The racy, intense and solidly concentrated flavors brim with minerality that carries over to the rustic and delicious finish. This is sufficiently structured to need a few years of bottle age first.
86-88 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2020+
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Pruliers’, Domaine Henri Gouges 2016 @ £400 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £440++) now
2016 Nuits St. Georges “Les Pruliers”: (a 2 ha parcel with a mix of 80% 75+ year old vines and the remainder of 15 to 20 year old vines). A beautifully layered nose offers up notes of both red and black pinot fruit, spice, warm earth and evident sauvage nuances. The rich, delicious and caressing medium weight plus flavors possess a velvety mid-palate mouthfeel that contrasts somewhat with the very firm, saline and lingering finish. This is muscular but not really rustic.
91-93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2028+
2 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Chaignots’, Domaine Georges Mugneret-Gibourg 2016 @ £1,760 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £1,800-£2,360++) 2-3 weeks
2016 Nuits St. Georges “Les Chaignots”: More subtle if still not invisible wood sets off the earthier and more evidently Nuits-like nose of red raspberry, dark cherry and whiffs of the sauvage. The more mineral-driven and sleekly muscular flavors possess a beguiling sense of underlying tension that continues onto the driving, super-intense and saline-inflected finish. This is definitely firmer and will need at least a few years of bottle age first. This too is very good.
93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound/2031+
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Murgers’, Domaine Cecile Tremblay 2017 @ £2,750 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £2,850-£3,090++) 2-3 weeks
8 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru, Domaine Michel Gros 2018 @ £325 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £427 loose++) 2-3 weeks
2 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Vaucrains’, Domaine Henri Gouges 2018 @ £530 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £550-£600++) now
2018 Nuits St. Georges “Les Vaucrains”: (from a 1.08 ha mix of younger and older vines that average about 50+ years of age). The cough drop and spice-inflected black fruit aromas flirt with volatile acidity. The rich, bold, powerful and full-bodied flavors possess excellent mid-palate concentration before culminating in a very firm, rustic and serious finish where a touch of warm emerges. This robust effort is vaguely syrah-like and while it is perfectly good in its fashion, I can’t say that it appeals to me.
89-92 points Allen Meadows, Burghound/2033+
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘Albuca’, Domaine Cecile Tremblay 2018 @ £2,395 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £2,450-£2,550++) 2-3 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘Albuca’, Domaine Cecile Tremblay 2019 @ £2,895 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £3,000++) 2-3 weeks
5 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘Les Lavieres’ TVV (1920), Domaine Jean Chauvenet 2019 @ £245 per 6 IB & OC now – photo available
7 cases – 12/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘Les Chaliots’, Domaine Michel Gros 2019 @ £390 per 12 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £444++) 2-3 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Clos de la Marechale’ MONOPOLE, Domaine J-F Mugnier 2019 @ £680 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £695++) 2-3 weeks
5 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Pruliers’, Domaine Taupenot-Merme 2019 @ £460 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £574++) 2-3 weeks
5 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Clos des Corvees’ MONOPOLE, Domaine Prieure Roch 2020 @ £2,275 per 6 IB & OWC (Lowest Wine Searcher £2,475++) now
4 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘Les Lavieres’ TVV (1920), Domaine Jean Chauvenet 2020 @ £245 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Clos de la Marechale’ MONOPOLE, Domaine J-F Mugnier 2021 @ £580 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £565 duty paid-£1,050++) 6-8 weeks
2021 Nuits St. Georges “Clos de la Maréchale”: This too is elegant and pure if slightly more deeply pitched with its aromas of both red and dark currant laced with freshly turned earth. Once again there is excellent verve and detail to the medium weight flavors that also possess an appealing texture if not quite the same finesse on the bitter pit fruit and youthfully austere finale that is slightly more structured.
88-91 points Allen Meadows, Burghound /2029+
4 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘La Petite Charmotte’, Marchand-Tawse 2021 @ £290 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £295++) 2-3 weeks
2 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges ‘Les Fleurieres’, Domaine Jean-Jacques Confuron 2021 @ £270 per 6 IB & OC 6-8 weeks
2 cases – 6/75cl Nuits St Georges 1er Cru ‘Clos des Forets St Georges’ MONOPOLE, Domaine de L’Arlot 2022 @ £460 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £480++) 6-8 weeks
1 case – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Clos de la Marechale’ MONOPOLE, Domaine J-F Mugnier 2022 @ £620 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £650++) 6-8 weeks
This is the ripest wine in the range yet the dark berry fruit and earth-suffused nose remains nicely fresh. The succulent, round and caressing but punchy medium-bodied flavors deliver solid length on the mildly warm and rustic finale that is both firm and complex. Some patience will be necessary.
90-93 points Allen Meadows, Burghound, Jan 2024, 2032+
9 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges, Domaine Henri Gouges 2022 @ £245 per 6 IB & OC (Lowest Wine Searcher £246++) 2-3 weeks
8 cases – 6/75cl Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru, Domaine Michel Gros 2022 @ £360 per 6 IB & OC 2-3 weeks
Payment Terms – Strictly 14 days on invoice for physical stocks (payment upon landing for later arrivals), and prior to stock transfer. Offered ex-LCB Tilbury, deliveries to other bonds charged at cost.
Subject to remaining unsold and final invoice confirmation. E&OE.