The Charmes-Chambertin is immensely impressive, exhibiting a saturated ruby/purple color, superb concentration, outstanding ripeness (a characteristic not found in many 1993s), medium to full body, and great length and richness. The toasty, vanillin aromas of new oak are noticeable, but this rich, concentrated wine is loaded with plenty of intense Pinot fruit. It should hit its apogee in 4-5 years and drink well for a decade thereafter.
In addition to hard tannin, many 1993 red burgundies are hollow, lacking depth and richness. These are not problems at Geantet-Pansiot. Their wines are among the darkest of the vintage, exhibiting saturated dark ruby/purple colors, as well as sweet, ripe noses, suggesting that low yields translated into physiologically ripe grapes. The wines' high tannin is accompanied by fleshy, chewy mid-palates, suggesting that ten years from now the fruit will still be present.
Importers: Jeroboam Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 374-9415 and Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel (703) 888-7939