2002 Domaine Denis Bachelet Charmes-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru

Magnum. Another stunning, fully mature wine. Perfect drinking now. Bright crimson with a pale rim. Lots of evolution and charming interest on the nose. Quite meaty. This was one of Denis' earliest plots and the vines are approaching 100 years old, having been planted by his great-aunt. Most attractive almost brûlée, bonfire nose. It was an honour to be able to enjoy this wonderful wine, made by Denis, who featured in the first series of The Wine Programme filmed by me in 1982. (JR)

The 2002 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru is an outstanding expression of both vineyard and vintage. It has a stunning, exquisitely defined bouquet with pure, ethereal red cherry and crushed strawberry scents infused with crushed stone aromas, later incense and potpourri. The palate is beautifully defined with filigree tannin, elegant yet delivering the concentration you expect from Bachelet's ancient vines. There is nigh perfect acidity here and it fans out in consummate style on the effortless finish. This is a gem! Tasted at the Gevrey-Chambertin lunch at China Tang in Hong Kong.

Tasted at the Denis Bachelet dinner at Quality Chop House. The Charmes-Chambertin 2002 is a brilliant wine. It has an elegant, refined bouquet with ebullient red cherry and strawberry fruit that feel sensual and complete. The palate is poised and full of nervosité – a harmonious Charmes-Chambertin with outstanding weight and presence, developing surprising dark chocolate notes on the finish with aeration. Mercurial and intellectual – this is Bachelet at his best.