1999 Maison Bertrand Ambroise Corton Le Rognet Grand Cru

The intense, black-colored 1999 Corton Le Rognet reveals black fruit, fresh herb, and Asian spice aromas. Ambroise generally produces 32 hectoliters per hectare from his 0.7 hectares of vines in this grand cru. In 1999, however, he harvested 40 hectoliters per hectare at 14.5% natural potential alcohol. This is a monster of a wine, crammed with blackberries, road tar, cherries, kirsch, and a myriad of spices. Its loads of exquisitely ripened tannins are soaked in sweet, candied fruits. This powerful, chewy offering coats the taster's palate and lasts for almost a minute. It is, at present, unformed, yet will become civilized with cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2014+. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083.