The 2009 Nuits St. Georges Les Hauts Porrets presents layers of black fruits, crushed rocks and flowers, all of which come together in a powerful, vibrant style. The density of the fruit carries through to the polished, finish. This is an especially elegant and complete Nuits. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. This is a strong set of wines from Gilles Jayer. In 2009 the harvest took place from the 16th to the 24th of September. After vinification Jayer leaves the wines in oak with no racking until they are assembled prior to bottling. Jayer uses 100% new oak for all his wines. With the occasional exception of some of the entry-level offerings, the wines handle their new oak admirably well. I also had a chance to taste the 2008s. Aside from the Hautes Cotes de Beaune – which was too reduced to evaluate – the 2008s showed very well.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083

The 2009 Nuits St. Georges Les Hauts Porrets clearly shows the effects of the hot year. The fruit is quite immediate and bold at the outset, but then the wine loses much of its persistence on the mid-palate and finish. A distinctly overripe character robs the wine of freshness and energy. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. No known American importer.