2017 Domaine Nicole Lamarche, Echezeaux Grand Cru

The 2017 Echézeaux Grand Cru comes courtesy of the domaine’s 1.32-hectare parcel in the lieu-dit of Les Champs Traversins. The pretty bouquet of vivacious red fruit, infused with touches of crushed violet, is not powerful or multifaceted compared to the previous two vintages. The palate is very well balanced with seamlessly integrated new oak, fleshy on the midpalate, and displays gentle but insistent grip toward the finish. I admire the gradual build in this Echézeaux, which should drink perfectly well after four or five years. Very fine.

Lightish crimson. Tangy, wild red fruits. Taut and rather light on the palate (seems to be the style of many from this appellation in 2017). Dry, almost chalky texture. Refined, subtle with underlying power that shows more in the length. (JH)