2014 Domaine Bruno Clair, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru, Clos Saint-Jacques

Tasted blind at the Burgfest 2014 tasting, the 2014 Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St Jacques has a stunning, pure, life-affirming bouquet that is just pure class and delivers exactly what you expect from a vineyard of this caliber (and price!). The palate is medium-bodied with succulent, pure red berry fruit tinged with spice and a hint of Seville orange marmalade. The tannins are filigree and the harmony toward the finish makes you giddy. This is a fabulous Clos Saint Jacques from Bruno Clair that challenges Rousseau as the pick of the five growers this year. Tasted September 2017.

Bright medium red. Very pure, fruit-driven aromas of strawberry, red raspberry, cherry and minerals. Airy and sharply delineated on the palate, conveying a strong impression of inner-mouth tension to the red fruit, mineral and red licorice flavors. This tightly coiled wine really vibrates on the supple, very long, rising finish.

Serious stuff. Very polished and fine. Lovely polish. So much pleasure! (JR)