Similar colour to Echezeaux. The nose is more reticent but left in the glass some gamey notes develop with leather and cherry. Fabulous definition on the palate, a more confident entry, very fresh with great finesse. Quite tight with firm tannins. More masculine than usual. This a real vin de gard. Tasted February 2005.

The 2002 Grands-Echézeaux was more aromatic, higher-toned and feminine in its personality. It, too, was quite pretty.

Medium red. Blacker fruits on the nose, lifted by violet and mineral nuances. A step beyond the Echezeaux in sweetness, texture and power. Fuller and more complex, with sappy dark berries complicated by leather and minerals. Finishes with round, sweet tannins and excellent length.

Sweet, pure and completely classic mostly red pinot fruit aromas are enhanced by subtle nuances of floral notes, damp earth, underbrush and even a hint of game. The big, muscular but utterly refined flavors are superbly intense, reserved and backward supported by remarkably sophisticated tannins and stunning length. This is a very concentrated wine of real breed and impeccable balance that should age for 3 decades, perhaps longer. The transparency is better in the 2001 but there is a bit more mid-palate concentration in the 2002. A choice, qualitatively speaking.

Highly expressive scents of flowers, perfume, and black cherries can be found in the aromatic profile of the 2002 Grands-Echezeaux. Satin-textured in the attack, its pretty, pepper-laced black berry-flavored personality is light to medium-bodied and lacks the persistence expected from a grand cru. In addition, some bitterness can be detected in its tannic finish. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2015. Importer: Wilson Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661