This wine is crafted from vines averaging 60 years old (consisting of 15 different parcels), it is dark colored and has profound aromas of blackberries, underbrush, Asian spices, and earth. This velvety-textured and medium-to-full-bodied wine explodes on the palate with powerful layers of black cherries and blackberries. It is a muscular yet refined offering that has immensely impressive richness, concentration, and palate presence. Its admirably long finish reveals satiny tannins, delineation, and sweet and spicy oak flavors. Projected maturity: 2002-2008. According to the burly Alain Burguet, "1996 is a great vintage that will age admirably; it has richness, finesse, structure, fruit, and marvelous equilibrium. At harvest the grapes were black, not pink, red, or purple." He went on to tell me that while he loves 1995's "richness, concentration, and equilibrium" 1996 is a better year. Burguet produced fine 1996s, from his Bourgogne to the superb Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes. A Becky Wasserman Selection, French Fax # 011-33-3-80-24-29-70, various American importers.

A strong eucalyptus note in the aroma, followed by rich, well-defined cherry and berry flavors bordered by spice. Seems a little lean and crisp, backed by some firm tannins. Best from 2001 through 2005.??–BS??Region: France / Burgundy / Gevrey-Chambertin Select to Add