Bright dark red. Lively, deep aromas of dark berries, cherry and blood orange. Broad, vibrant and harmonious, with superb sappiness and mineral tension to the red fruit and floral flavors. Most impressive today on the extremely long, ethereal finish, with leaves the palate coated in mineral dust. In sheer energy, this really transcends the vintage.

The 2009 Echézeaux is totally seamless and inviting. The aromas and flavors build beautifully in the glass in this radiant, expressive wine. Sweet, silky tannins frame the voluminous finish. The exotic, spiced personality of Echézeaux is captured beautifully here.

In stark contrast to the fresh, bright and expressive nose that I saw from cask, this has shut down hard and while persistent swirling and plenty air coaxes subtle spice notes as well as plum and red cherry to emerge, it's clear that this is going to require some bottle age before it blossoms. Otherwise there is fine concentration to the medium-bodied flavors that coat the palate on the delicious, complex, balanced and lingering finish that evidences very firm tannins that impart a notable austerity. A "buy and forget" wine built for the long-term. Tasted: April 2012