2019 Marchand-Tawse, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru, Champeaux

The 2019 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Champeaux 1er Cru, a cuvée that comes from the négociant side, includes 20% new oak and is completely destemmed. It has a well-defined bouquet of black cherry and crushed strawberry, hints of clove and ash-like aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly chewy tannins and good grip, but the finish feels a little clumsy compared to the finesse found in Marchand Tawse’s other cuvées.

Destemmed, 30% new oak. From the lower part of Champeaux, a former quarry, with complex, broken-rocky soil. Note that there is both a domaine and a maison bottling of Champeaux. Barrel sample. Deep crimson. Neat, well-composed even if not dramatic nose. A little dry and tight on the palate for the moment but not too sweet! Though just a bit light compared with the Domaine Tawse version. Correct rather than thrilling, with the fruit slightly overwhelmed by the oak. (JR)