Deep red-ruby. Superripe, utterly captivating nose combines sappy raspberry, strawberry, cherry, cocoa powder, smoky oak, licorice and rose petal. Thick, silky and seamless, with compelling sweetness of fruit. Very slow-building, very long finish features substantial fine tannins. A great showing.

The 2000 Chambertin-Clos de Bèze is a real treat to taste as it is quite expressive, especially in its aromatics. Deep and implosive on the palate, the 2000 possesses striking textural richness, but it is also going to need at least a few more years in bottle to fully blossom. Nevertheless, this is a strong showing. With time in the glass, the bouquet begins to open up, but the 2000 remains an infant. The 2000 is an unusually suave, silky Bèze that emphasizes grace over power.

Round and fruity and fresh. Direct with vivaciousness. Fresh and lively but a little solid. Can’t quite see that it will develop great subtlety but fresh and zesty. (JR)