1996 Chambolle Musigny Les Amoureuses

Slightly deeper colour but similar hue to 1997. Round – no excess of acidity – and quite vital though dries out a bit on the finish – very suddenly. Then just a little bit dead. Lots of acidity but not that much tannin. (JR)

Christophe Roumier described this wine as having "serenity and calm." This ruby-colored wine offers aromas of sweet cherries, fresh herbs, blackberries, violets, and blueberries that give way to its oily-textured, rich, broad, lively, and highly-detailed personality. Morels soaked in blackberry juice and dusted with minerals can be found in this expansive and concentrated beauty's flavor profile as well as in its oaky, satiny finish. Drink it between 2003 and 2008. Roumier informed me he was planning to bottle his 1996s earlier than usual to "trap the fruit." He is of the opinion that they will not be exuberant, charming, and seductive following bottling. Virtually every vigneron agreed that the 1996s have been a delight to drink from the moment the grapes were pressed. Yet Roumier thinks they will need years to be expressive. Those 1996s that I have tasted stateside have maintained their forward, fruity character, but time will tell. Importer: Chateaux and Estates Wine Co., New York, NY; Tel; (212) 572-7725.