Bright, moderately saturated red. Surprisingly expressive scents of dark cherry, redcurrant and spices come across as more open and liqueur-like than those of the Malconsorts. Then dense, supple and compellingly sweet on the plate, offering an enticing creaminess of texture and considerable refinement. Finishes with substantial ripe tannins and lingering sweetness. Much less austere in the early going than the Malconsorts.

The 2015 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru has a slightly lackluster bouquet that initially does not convey the energy or spark you look for in a young Pinot Noir, but then five minutes later, it is delightful and refined. The palate is fresh and tart on the entry, featuring earthy red fruit; however, it cuts away a little swiftly toward the finish. Fortunately, it fills out with aeration and ends up being quite an elegant Clos de Vougeot. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.

Sweet red cherry fruit. Straightforward rather than subtle at this point. No shortage of tannin. Distinctly chunky. (JR)