The 2016 Richebourg Grand Cru is not as immediate as Thibault Liger-Belair's Richebourg and for a fleeting moment it comes across as a bit disjointed. It only needs a bit of rigorous swirling for it to coalesce into something much more enticing: red plum, crushed strawberry, warm gravel and just a light Cuban cigar scent. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannin and seamlessly integrated new oak. This is edgier than the Richebourg from Thibault Liger-Belair, just as captivating in many ways, although it is not as immediate and not as seductive. It boasts amazing persistence, completing a very cerebral and entrancing wine. Tasted blind at the 2016 Burgfest tasting.

Blackberries and black cherries, and plenty of substance to give shape on the palate, but it doesn't have the opulence of their Pézerolles Pommard. Hard to justify the premium on price that is bound to come with the grand cru label! (RH) (JR)