The Guillemot 2005 Savigny-les-Beaune Les Serpentieres. (which represents by far the majority of their acreage) offers a surprisingly brisk nose and snappy palate impression of sour cherry, cherry pits, wood smoke, and citrus oils. Pithy and clean as a whistle, with a long, lean finish of tart red fruit and fruit pits, pungent smokiness, orange zest and wet stone, this is not a wine for those who want cuddly Pinot with love handles! I enjoyed it now, but would recommend 5-7 years in the cellar.
Based on the evidence of these 2005s (which I tasted just after bottling, with their importer and not at the domaine), the new generation intends not to violate the distinctively old-fashioned charms which have always characterized Guillemot wines at their best, but perhaps they can introduce some needed consistency. As a group these wines offer good value, at least for tasters to whom their style appeals.
Also recommended: 2005 Bourgogne ($22.00; 84).
Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524.