Medium ruby colour. The nose shows a little more wood than any other wine here, but there’s also a deep, deep fruit compote to fall into. The palate has superbly concentrated red fruit with excellent acidity for balance. Fine tannins and a long finish. This is excellent and a long way from the start of its mature phase – needs at least another 5 years.
1996
1996 Gallois Dominique Charmes-Chambertin
Lovely deep ruby, still with hints of purple. The nose is an impressive mix of blackberry, some subtle smokey notes and a hint of undergrowth – just perceptible coffee too. The palate, without being fat shows concentrated dark cherry fruit, good acidity and relatively smooth, medium tannins. The follow through is not bad – medium-plus length. Not as obviously young as many 96’s but still some way from peaking – good now and should become a lovely wine.
1996 Jadot Louis Clos de Vougeot
Deep colour. Nose is black cherry with soil and fallen leaves. The palate has prominent furry tannins and very good acidity. The fruit is incredibly intense black cherry, in fact almost sour cherries. Very long too, though still very young. This wine is more structured and primary than most 2000’s and I wouldn’t touch another for 4-5 years. Excellent potential.
1996 Rossignol-Trapet Chapelle-Chambertin
1996 Thomas-Moillard Corton Clos du Roi
1996 Hudelot-Noellat Romanée Saint-Vivant
1996 Grivot Jean Richebourg
1996 Gros Anne Richebourg
Anne has a shorter cold soak, and ferments at a higher temp than Grivot. Colour is very deep. Less closed again, cherry and plum fruits. High acid, reduced tannin compared to Grivot’s. More obviously fruity palate with a slightly creamy oak finish. Full bodied, again very, very long and again – fabulous!
1996 Comte Georges de Vogüé Musigny Vieilles Vignes
Deep colour. Again the nose giving little away, though certainly, higher toned than the previous wines. High tannin, though much lower than the Richebourgs. It somehow seems to combine the body of the last wine, with being smoother and softer. This wine has, by a margin, the longest finish – incredible!