The 2009 Pommard 1er Cru reveals exceptional balance in its striking bouquet, expressive, layered fruit and fine, silky tannins. This racy, gorgeous wine is likely to be one of the sleepers of the vintage. The 1er Cru is made from younger vines in the Clos des Epeneaux ranging from 23-27 years of age. In 2009 it drinks far above its pedigree and is a great choice for readers who want to discover the unique qualities of this site without splurging for the Clos. I loved it. Tasted from barrel. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029. Readers who want to experience the thrill of 2009 without spending a fortune should focus on Comte Armand’s Pommard 1er Cru, which is shaping up to be the one of the under the radar success stories of the vintage. Winemaker Benjamin Leroux is immensely gifted, and the work he is doing at Comte Armand is simply brilliant. A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet, various American importers, including: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808, Veritas Imports, Beverly Hills, CA; tel. (310) 205-3803; Toepfer Imports LLC, CO; tel. (303) 818-7640