2010 Bourgogne Rouge

The 2010 Bourgogne is a stunning wine for the money. An exotic, ripe bouquet leads to generous fruit in this supple, juicy Bourgogne. Sweet floral and spiced notes follow, adding complexity on the mid-palate and finish. The 2010 possesses remarkable depth at this level as well as a fabulous overall balance. I can’t think of a better introduction to the vintage and the wines of this great domaine. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2022. I have to say, this is a stunning set of wines from Denis and Bertrand Chevillon. The Chevillons told me they were surprised by the quality of the wines given the challenges of the growing season. The 2010s saw 5-10 days of cold soak, followed by 15-21 days of cuvaison. The wines were aged on their lees in French oak barrels, 30% new for the top wines and less for the mid- and entry-level wines. The 2010s will be bottled beginning in March 2012 through July 2012. Unfortunately, the 2009s were in an awkward stage on my last visit, so I had to wait a few more months to taste those wines. It was worth the wait. Chevillon’s 2009s are among the wines of the vintage. The 2009s were bottled beginning February (for the entry-level wines) through April for the top selections. I will report on the domaine’s 2009s in the April issue. Importer: Kermit Lynch, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524