The 2010 Maranges Le Croix aux Moines shows great energy and focus in a medium-bodied style that is very appealing. Firm yet well-balanced tannins frame a core of expressive red fruit, flowers, mint and crushed rocks. This is a beautifully balanced wine from Camille Giroud that captures the personality of the year in spades. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. Winemaker David Croix describes 2010 as being similar to 2002, but with more tension. The harvest started on September 23. About two-thirds of the wines were lightly chaptalized. None of these wines had been racked at the time of my visit in November 2011. Giroud fans will note the addition of two new Volnays to the lineup. I will report on the maison’s 2009s in the April issue. A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet, various American importers, including Grand Cru Selections, New York, NY; tel. (212) 974-2500; Veritas Imports, Beverly Hills, CA; tel. (310) 205-3803; Toepfer Imports LLC, CO; tel. (303) 818-7640

Bright medium red. High-pitched aromas of cherry, menthol, licorice, fresh herbs and celery seed. Juicy, spicy and on the lean side, with slightly tart acidity enlivening the flavors of red cherry, raspberry, mint and menthol. Relies as much on its acids as on its light tannins for structure. Not a fleshy wine but pretty, vibrant and downright gulpable.