Dark red with ruby tones. Deeper, darker and earthier than the Clos de Bèze, conveying aromas of dark raspberry, spices and rare steak but less of the high-pitched mineral and floral notes of its sibling. Large-scaled, brooding and backward, but still more red fruits than black in style, with its density and power leavened by electric acidity. Combines incredible thickness and volume without a light touch, thanks to penetrating soil-driven minerality. Finishes with an uncanny impression of solidity but no excess weight. This brilliant Chambertin is built for a very long life in bottle.

Cask sample. Bought from his mate Pierre Damoy and he decides when to pick. More severe than the Clos de Bèze but stunning. Great density and balance and undertow. Long and really fabulous. Long and throbbing. (JR)