Bouchard has nearly four hectares of this, perhaps the greatest site in the Beaune appellation. On a modest slope with east-southeast exposure in the heart of the terroir, this has produced a sophisticated, elegant wine in 2020, fermenting out to barely 13.5% alcohol with a pH between 3.5–3.6. The fruit is supremely luxurious and lush, yet underscored with plenty of nuance of spice, smoke, earth, and leather. The texture is dense and powerful yet superbly elegant — a triumph.

Unfurling in the glass with aromas of blackberries and raspberries mingled with notions of warm spices, rose petals, orange rind and dark chocolate, the 2020 Beaune 1er Cru Les Grèves Vigne de l'Enfant Jesus is medium to full-bodied, ample and concentrated, with a deep core of fruit that's framed by rich, powdery tannins and succulent acids. It's a terrific effort that should land toward the upper end of my score range.

The 2020 Beaune Les Grèves Vigne de L'Enfant Jesus 1er Cru has a perfumed nose, quite floral with a mixture of red and black fruit and a touch of wilted violet. Fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and a keen line of acidity. It's slightly granular in texture as it opens in the glass. Sea salt and hints of peppercorns are developing. It has a moderate length with just a little dryness. Fine, and it improves in the glass. Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting.

BP&F own this plot of 3.9 ha of the 30 ha total in mid slope. Sandy, well-drained soil. Earlier-maturing than Clos de la Mousse, the second climat to be picked. Weber separates young (destemmed) and old vines (50% whole bunch) and vinifies them separately. 20 to 25% new oak. Pale crimson with a pale rim. Grainy texture and some real depth and energy. Caresses the palate with life but it is a bit sweet… Fruit flavours veer towards blackcurrant, which is unusual for a red burgundy. Not my favourite in this collection. Just a bit too sweet. (JR)