2011 Echezeaux

A wine that develops beautifully in the glass, the 2011 Echézeaux shows all of the softness and sensuality that makes so many wines in this vintage appealing young. Dried red cherries, crushed flowers, mint and licorice meld together nicely in a supple, expressive Burgundy. Slightly green notes come through from time to time, but they are nicely balanced by the depth of the fruit.

Bright, dark red. Cherry pit and redcurrant on the nose. Fine-grained, supple and open-knit, showing good energy but not the sappiness or precision--or fat--of the Clos Vougeot. In a distinctly saline, soil-driven style, less vibrant and primary than the Clos Vougeot. Not singing today, but the finish is ripely tannic and long.

Good bright, full red. Redcurrant, smoke and tobacco on the nose and palate. Round, fine-grained, rich and dry, offering very good volume and a subtly sensual texture. Really saturates the mouth with flavor. If Grivot's Clos Vougeot has been gaining in finesse in recent vintages, his Echezeaux has been demonstrating more energy and tension. The rising finish is vibrant and very long, showing a fine dusting of tannins and a saline nuance.