The 2009 Maranges Le Croix aux Moines is gorgeous. It shows wonderful freshness and vibrancy in its dark red fruit, spices and licorice. All the elements are beautifully balanced in this harmonious, poised Burgundy. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet, various American importers, including: Grand Cru Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 974-2500; Veritas Imports, Beverly Hills, CA; tel. (310) 205-3803; Toepfer Imports LLC, CO; tel. (303) 818-7640

(GOOD VALUE CHOICE) Very ripe, opulent cherry nose. Full-bodied, fashioned in a ripe dense style that%u2019s slightly baked but has attack, vigour, and persistence.