2010 Bouchard Pere et Fils, Chambertin-Clos de Beze Grand Cru

(50% vendange entier ): Bright red-ruby. Spectacular, ethereal nose offers aromas of cranberry, pomegranate, blackberry, dried rose, cinnamon and menthol. Like liquid silk on the palate, with superb sappy intensity and energy to the lightly saline flavors of dark fruits, clove, minerals and flowers. A wine of compelling complexity, finishing with noble tannins and great palate-staining persistence. Owing to the high percentage of uncrushed berries, this wine had the longest cuvaison in the cellar.

Surprisingly expressive of red fruit, with an overlay of oak spice and a dusty element. Tannins are enigmatic – they start fluid and silky and then build to quite a block at the end. Sweet red fruit re-emerges on the length with real persistence and concentration. (JH)