Medium ruby colour. The nose is high toned but the lower registers are decidedly musty which is a shame as there seems to be a clean core of fruit behind. The acidity stands proud of the rest of the wine – the finish is bitter too – no thanks.
Thomas Charles
2000 Thomas Charles Clos de Vougeot
Medium-plus colour. The nose is deep with ripe fruit that’s even a little jammy. Grainy tannins and reasonably good acidity. The finish is long and a little astringent, but this is showing in a very young way. Not amazing quality but potentially not bad – give it another 3-5 years before trying again.
2000 Thomas Charles Romanée Saint-Vivant
Really deep cherry colour, just fades gently to the rim. The nose has a lovely focused griotte note which gains emphasis with time, not at all floral. Creamily fat, concentrated, and surprisingly tannic – this has a finish like a fully loaded shiraz. Good acidity and concentrated fruit that seems to be up to the job. I’m surprised how up-front this wine shows – it’s not really for drinking right now, but at least half a dozen will be finding their way to my cellar for 2010+