I’m currently straining at the bit for ‘vendanges info’ as I won’t be in the Côtes until next Monday – to distract myself this weekend, not only a few hours walking in the ‘hills’ but a trio of nice wines too: Starting with Daniel Rion’s 1995 Vosne 1er les Beaux Monts. It’s not that long since I gave a note on that one – so I won’t repeat myself – but again it was a good wine. Then a pair of Île de Vergelesses – both were on great form. I can see me collecting a few other labels from this vineyard over the next months…

2009 Chandon de Briailles, Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Ile des Vergelesses
Medium, medium-plus colour. The nose gives a simply wonderful impression – a large bowl of dark-skinned, perfectly ripe cherries. In the mouth there is real concentration, understated tannin which may be suave but is also powerful. The acidity is enough, if undemonstrative, yet effortlessly delivers the mid-palate’s depth of flavour. Understated yet impressive length – rather like the wine itself…
Rebuy – Yes

2008 Dubreuil-Fontaine, Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Ile des Vergelesses
Medium, medium-plus colour. There’s a hint of musk with dark red fruit – not so much vanilla as last time. Finely muscled and intense, borne on the lovely (when balanced) acidity of the vintage. The mid-palate fruit also showcases that musky character – but in a very, very nice way. Super finishing flavours – this remains a hit and is still very, very drinkable.
Rebuy – Yes