This perfumed beauty displays fireworks in a glass with its kaleidoscopic nose of super spicy, floral and cool red and dark berry nose. The middle weight flavors are less concentrated and powerful than those of the Grands Ech but markedly finer with a caressing and sophisticated mouthfeel that carries over to the rich finish that once again tightens up noticeably on the impeccably well-balanced and strikingly persistent finish. While at least some patience will also be required this classy effort should be approachable sooner than the Grands Ech.

Cask sample. Mid crimson. Much darker fruited than the Hautes-Côtes de Nuits. Firm but the tannins are surprisingly rounded and gentle. Harmonious and tasty but not really grand cru intensity, hence the rather conservative drink dates. (JH)