This is a vineyard from the northern side of Beaune, according to Philippe often quite smokey in presentation – like Volnay Caillerets. Very forward fruit and quite high-toned for a 2003. The palate has a very ripe coulis of fruit, good tannins but not quite so sophisticated as the ’03 Clos de la Mousse that preceded it. A good, mouthwatering and very long finish – just a little raisin fruit on the end.

Assembled through successive purchases, BP&F now hold over 2.5 hectares of this vineyard which is almost on the border with Savingy. Medium colour. The nose is restrained, but shows ‘sugary’ red fruits. I find the fruit more intense on the palate than the previous 1er Cru blend, but also the tannins are significantly more prominent. Apparently year in – year out, Marconnets always provides a more tannic wine. A wine to wait for, it’s going to be a good one.