2013 Clos Vougeot

Tasted blind at Fine & Rare Wines' Clos Vougeot tasting, the 2013 Clos Vougeot Grand Cru from Château de la Tour has a "placid" bouquet that is minding its own business. It is nicely defined, but you get the feeling that it is holding something back. With a little aeration it reveals attractive blackcurrant pastille and Morello cherry scents, then later, a hint of dried orange peel. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin. There is good density and weight here, appreciable mineralité although the finish is reticent for the time being. Give this a 3-4 years in bottle and you will have a very fine Clos Vougeot.

Tasted blind. Bright ruby. Polished, rather heady cocktail of briary autumnal aromas and some sweetness. Medium weight with tannins that become more assertive on the finish. Indeed the fruit is, if anything, a little light for the tannic charge. (JR)

Due to be bottled June or July, the 2013 Clos Vougeot Cuvée Classique, which was taken from barrel and is raised in around 50% new oak, has a harmonious bouquet with perfumed black cherries and raspberry scents, just a touch of reduction–but that will blow off. The palate is fresh on the entry with crisp, chalky tannin. The acidity is well-judged with a gentle build in the mouth towards a mint-fresh finish. Fine.