Bright ruby-red. Classy aromas of blackberry, violet and minerals show terrific lift but are more reserved today than those of the Echézeaux. Much less forthcoming in the mouth too, but with a very sensual texture and an airy lightness of touch. Perfumed flavors of dark berries, violet, licorice and minerals spread out to coat the palate. This savory, sappy, backward wine finishes with superb rising length.

The 2013 Grands Echézeaux Grand Cru appears to offer slightly more complexity on the nose with blackberry, briary, damp moss and sea-spray aromas (indeed, the marine influence here is stronger than on the Echézeaux.) The palate is medium-bodied with tensile tannins. There is a sense of femininity here, while the Echézeaux is distinctly more masculine. It is silky and approachable toward the finish but endowed with greater length.

Just five pièces, as usual. Almost brutal and so full of life. Intense and steamrollering along. This is a wine that makes all fall before it. Lots of excitement and mass. Definitely longer than the Échezeaux. Muscular. (JR)