The 2016 Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras 1er Cru has a much more meaty and tertiary bouquet than its peers from possibly a small addition of whole bunch, the oak influence just a little more conspicuous than I would have liked. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy, angular tannin, blacker fruit emerging towards the finish with a slightly brittleness to the texture. This needs another couple of years to coalesce. Tasted blind at the 2016 Burgfest tasting.

(from a yield of just ten hectoliters per hectare, according to Roumier; vinified with 55% whole clusters): Bright, dark red. Subdued aromas of dark raspberry and crushed stone. Dense, sappy and seamless, with harmonious acidity energizing the flavors of red berries and minerals. At once sweet and savory, this rather plush wine boasts terrific mouth coverage. Finishes with a refreshing mineral firmness.

Higher vineyard than most, facing south east. Marnes calcaire – terres blanches. Low-vigour vines here. Theirs were planted 1931, some replanted 2002. Down 60% (10 hl/ha) in 2016. 55% whole bunch. Barrel sample. Discreet nose. Broad fruit and lovely sweet finish with lots of freshness. Very lively and forward. And a beautiful finish. (JR)