2002 Bonnes Mares

Ultra elegant and high-toned red and black fruit aromas cut with obvious earth notes are followed by rich, full-bodied flavors that are sappy yet edgy, all culminating in a powerful and punchy finish. The aspect that impresses me the most however is the impeccable balance. In short, a gorgeous wine.

The concentrated, powerful 2002 Bonnes Mares explodes from the glass with violets, roses, and cherries. Medium-bodied, satin-textured, broad, and beautifully ripened, it coats the palate with peppery red fruits, black cherries, and hints of pepper. Loads of ripe tannin can be discerned in its long, harmonious finish. Projected maturity: 2006-2014. Importer: David Hinkle / Peter Vezan, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (800) 266-6585

Good medium red. Complex, pure nose combines black raspberry, blackberry, herbs, mocha, licorice and rose petal. Very tightly wound today, even a bit lean, and hiding more than itÂ’s showing. Highly perfumed flavors of blackberry, licorice and fresh herbs. Finishes with very firm tannins and excellent length. Less sweet than the Chambolle samples, yet harmonious from the outset. I may be underrating this. Half of these vines were replanted in 1987, as Mugnier replaced a large-berried, thin-skinned clone that was particularly sensitive to rot.