A 2005 Pommard Grands Epenots offers a black cherry fruit counterpart to the Epenots’ red cherry. Ripe aromas of distilled fruit intensity lead to an intensely concentrated palate impression of chocolate and caramel-tinged black cherry. So creamy, rich and ripe as to display a liqueur-like disposition, this nevertheless preserves freshness and sheer refreshment. Pure-fruited and with a stony underlying mineral sense, the finish of this Pommard reminds me of a great Charmes Chambertin. With ample but exceptionally refined tannins, this seamless and single-mindedly fruity Pinot is surely built for at least a decade in the cellar, during which time it should acquire further complexity. Importer: Vintus, Pleasantville, NY; tel. (919) 769-3000