2016 Burgundy En Primeur

Transcription

1 2016 Burgundy En Primeur

2 2016 Burgundy Vintage Report We need to talk about frost; it s complicated If the British love to talk about the weather, the Burgundians will fervently hope that they never need speak of it again in such terms as There is nothing so capricious as nature, and after the 2015 vintage offering perhaps the easiest growing season in living memory, the weather struck back with a cruel vengeance in Winemakers were tested almost to breaking point. For many, perhaps Burgundy s greatest joy lies in its complexity, but the unprecedented pril frosts set the vintage on a course of almost unique complications and conclusions. The frost that completely destroyed some vineyards has bestowed many that survived with an unusual level of concentration due to the low yields. There are also many instances where sites that were hit with frost in pril developed a secondary generation of grapes, which set off along a separate path of evolution towards maturity and had to be carefully managed. While some producers picked only the first grapes and produced wines of concentration; some picked everything, and others picked a proportion of the second generation and blended, achieving less concentration but perhaps more complexity. Burgundy; it s complicated. The frost at the end of pril was easily the worst since the 1981 vintage, and many growers were told by their grandparents that they had never seen a more severe example. But what sets this frost apart from others is the scale of damage across the region, and the Crus that were hit. Some of Burgundy s greatest Grand Crus (Montrachet and Musigny included) were devastated, areas that would typically never see such damage. Frost usually bites hardest at the vineyards at the bottom of the slopes and on the flat, but 2016 devastated some of the best sites on the slopes, and those located in and around the cooling valleys or Combes that provide air circulation were amongst the worst affected. Those who thought nature would be content with frost were disappointed, as it was soon followed by severe attacks of mildew. In a cruel twist, many of the regions that were affected by frost also suffered from mildew, leaving virtually no grapes untouched. The pressure on winemakers was incredibly intense, one vigneron believes that over 60 producers in the region abandoned organic farming because they felt the need to spray to try and save both a crop and their livelihood. Just as everyone was about to pack up and give in, the weather changed as swiftly as it struck, and from July to September nature provided dry, sunny conditions. Those grapes that had survived to this point were rewarded with ideal conditions to gradually attain ripeness. sheepish mother nature even provided a touch of rain in September to refresh the vines and ease any stress from drought.

3 Many of the white wines from the Côte de Beaune have impressive levels of concentration, especially those in Chassagne-Montrachet and Meursault where the frost-affected yields are particularly low. The purity of fruit is particularly impressive and the acidities are largely in balance, which is remarkable given the concentration levels. t Bourgogne and Villages level the wines are very classic Burgundy, they offer immediate appeal and will be a joy to drink. The top Premier Crus and the Grand Crus are a different proposition altogether; in many instances the volumes are small to non-existent, but the wines have a depth, transparency, and energy that is utterly compelling. The red wines, both from the Côte de Beaune and the Côte de Nuits, are more difficult to generalise. Many of them are classic Burgundy in the best sense, they are well-balanced, and perhaps more typical of their terroirs than the warmer 2015s. They reveal wonderful juicy Pinot fruits, tender tannins, and bright acidities. The levels of concentration vary from site to site, with some showing more depth and structure than others. With yields significantly reduced, winemakers were presented with unique challenges. Where volumes are as low as one barrel, the maturation choice is a simple one of either no new oak or 100% new oak. It is possible that some of these wines will never be made in the same way again. Following the delicious, but somewhat atypical 2015 vintage in Chablis, the 2016 marks a return to a more classical style. The devastating reality for Chablis is that they were not only hit by frost and mildew, they also suffered two hailstorms in May. Whilst the quality is definitely there, some sites were completely wiped out and many growers have lost between 1/3 to 2/3 of their production. Prices remain very reasonable for the quality, and Chablis deserves our support. It is remarkable that, despite all of its travails, 2016 has produced many wines that are of a very high level, and speak so clearly of their terroirs. Several winemakers stated their preference for 2016 over 2015, not necessarily in terms of quality, but in terms of style. The best wines have a sense of strength, in that they have shown resilience, have survived catastrophic events, and emerged breathless on the harvest side. There is a nervous tension and a transparency to many of these wines that is thrilling; they merit attention for their tenacity, their scarcity, and their undoubted quality. Martin Tickle Fine Wine Buyer Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 3

4 What is en primeur? Recommendations from Jeroboams Just like real estate, fashion or the stock market, everyone wants to know what s going to be the next big thing. What do you buy and when do you sell? The wine industry is no exception. En Primeur is the term used across the wine trade for buying wine after production but before it is bottled. It is also sometimes referred to as wine futures. Who is En Primeur for? En Primeur is perfect for those wanting to start a cellar collection or to put wine away to drink in the future. It can also be cheaper to buy wine during the period before it is bottled and sold to the open market; although prices do vary considerably from time to time, historically wine values have risen as they mature. Many domaines produce tiny quantities of wine so it is sometimes the only way to secure wine that may not be available to purchase once released. How can you guarantee the quality of the wine? Each year our experienced buyers visit domaines throughout Burgundy to taste their barrel samples and to pick the best wines for our customers to enjoy. We also have a keen eye for those wines that represent great value for money. We ship direct from the domaines to our bonded warehouse to ensure provenance of the wines. When do I get to own the wine? When purchased En Primeur becomes the property of the customer once due monies have been received. When will it be delivered? 2016 Burgundy will predominantly be shipped summer 2018, except for domaines marked with an * which are likely to be shipped winter Exact dates to be confirmed, please speak to your sales contact with any questions. How can I guarantee my wine will be safe? Your wines are fully insured. Where is the best place to store my wines? We can advise on and arrange storage for you in a bonded warehouse within a secure and temperature controlled environment. Each wine within the offer has been carefully chosen for its individual merits. These recommendations are designed to help you spot wines from lesser known domaines and vineyards that are truly noteworthy. Star buys Not necessarily the most expensive wines at a domaine, these stood out during tastings and are a true reflection of their terroir and the vintage. They offer outstanding quality for their price. Best value Burgundy has a wine for all occasions, and these are wines that can be enjoyed at any time of year. Not everyone wants to lay down wine for long periods, these wines will be approachable on release and offer great value. Drink dates We have provided our suggested drinking dates for your reference. These refer to when wines will, in our opinion, be fully into their stride. Many of the grander wines will continue to age beyond these dates but each person s taste varies as to when they will find a wine at peak drinking. llocated wine Sadly, given the tiny volumes produced, the demand for the top wines of Burgundy inevitably exceeds the supply. For these wines we may have to allocate them, we give priority to Jeroboams and the relevant domaine s long-standing and best customers. We will also endeavour to accommodate new purchasers, please speak to your sales contact for details. Pricing ll wines are priced per case of 3, 6 or 12 in bond. Wines are shipped in bond to London City Bond, Barking, where they are held free of duty and VT. Wines requested to be transferred from London City Bond to a different bonded warehouse will remain free of duty and VT. Wines delivered to a customer s home or office address will have charges for excise duty and VT added. The current excise duty charge as dictated by HMR&C is per case of 12 bottles and VT is 20% on the total of the cost of the wine plus duty. E&OE Delivery charge of 9.95 inc VT will be added for deliveries to a bonded warehouse or private address unless the delivery is to Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Isle of Wight where different rates apply and can be provided on request Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 5

5 En primeur wines Côte de Beaune Domaine Blain-Gagnard 11 Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard 11 Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot 12 Domaine Gagnard-Delagrange 13 Domaine Jean-Louis Chavy 14 Domaine Etienne Sauzet 15 Domaine Patrick Javillier 16 Domaine Michelot 17 Domaine Michel Bouzereau 17 Domaine Darviot-Perrin 18 Maison & Domaine Roche de Bellène 19 Domaine Bachelet-Monnot 22 Domaine ntonin Guyon 23 Maison Pascal Clement 25 Domaine Bouchard Père et Fils 26 Côte de Nuits Domaine Faiveley 31 Domaine nne-françois Gros 32 Domaine Odoul-Coquard 33 Maison Marchand-Tawse 34 Domaine Jean-Marc Millot 35 Domaine François Lamarche 36 Domaine Bruno Clavelier 37 Domaine des Lambrays 38 Domaine Drouhin-Laroze 39 Chablis Domaine William Fèvre 43 Domaine Billaud-Simon 44 Domaine Samuel Billaud 45 Domaine des Malandes 46 Domaine Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin 47 We are proud to work with the following producers, but due to the exceptional reduction in volumes produced in 2016, these wines are not offered for general sale. Please contact your account manager for details. Domaine Paul Pillot Domaine Leflaive Domaine Marquis d ngerville Domaine nne Gros Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Domaine rnoux-lachaux Domaine François Bertheau Domaine Georges Roumier Domaine Denis Mortet Domaine Henri Gouges Domaine Hudelot-Noëllat Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 7

6 Côte de Beaune

7 Côte de Beaune The Côte de Beaune, noted for some very fine red wines and for the greatest of all Burgundian whites in and around the Montrachet vineyard jasper morris mw Domaine Blain-Gagnard Domaine Blain-Gagnard was formed when Jean-Marc Blain married Claudine Gagnard, they met whilst studying oenology at Dijon. Today they run the domaine with the assistance of their son, Marc-ntonin. The domaine was sadly affected by frost in 2016, they have produced only 15% of the usual volume for Grand Cru, 30% for Premier Cru, and 50% for village wines Chassagne-Montrachet The 2016 Chassagne-Montrachet is a blend of different parcels, including a proportion of grapes from Premier Cru vineyards, and a parcel of old vines from the 1930s. very pure and precise nose of grapefruit and citrus peel, with hints of almond. The palate is very classic, with bright acidity adding tension, and a faint note of buttery oak framing the finish Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, Morgeot Morgeot s soil is a deep clay, and is also an excellent source of red Chassagne- Montrachet. The Premier Cru whites from Morgeot tend to be generous and richly textured, and this 2016 is no exception, bolstered by a proportion of 60 year old vines. The nose is exuberant, with notes of nougat, butter, and a cheeky whiff of ginger. pricots on the palate, lifted by white flowers and honeysuckle. This is a seriously tasty Morgeot, that will have wide appeal Btls Btls Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard Céline Gagnard continues her superb run of form with a tremendous 2016 vintage. Having taken the reins from her parents, Laurence Gagnard and Richard Fontaine, Céline is making the most of their enviable vineyard holdings. Yields are down by between 50-75% due to frost, with the Grand Cru and certain Premier Cru sites the worst affected. The Gagnards remarked that no one in the family had ever seen such low yields. The Côte de Beaune makes up the southern portion of the Côte d Or, the heart of Burgundy. It runs from the village of Ladoix, just to the north of Beaune, down to Santenay 20km to the South. The reds can be excellent from here and tend to have more perfume and less weight than those from further North in the Côte, but it is for whites that this region is most famous. From the structured and long lived Corton- Charlemagne to the decedent weight of Bâtard-Montachet, these are the finest Chardonnays in the world Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, La Grande Montagne Happily, La Grande Montagne was spared the very worst of the frost in 2016, because the trees around the parcel provided protection from the elements. The vineyard is a suntrap, but that exposure is moderated by its relatively high altitude. Often regarded as the most Puligny-Montrachet in style of the Chassagne- Montrachet Premier Crus, the 2016 combines attractive yellow orchard fruits with a pleasing stony minerality and a salty tang on the finish. This is a lovely Grande Montagne, which may rival their celebrated 2014 in terms of quality Btls Burgundy En Primeur 11

8 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune 2016 Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Vergers Les Vergers sits above Les Chenevottes, on a shallow red soil of iron over limestone. romatic on the nose, showing a combination of lilies, almond, and spiced apples. The acidity that typifies Vergers is present and correct, but the palate is atypically open and expressive at this early stage. So much to enjoy already, with excellent density, precision, and texture Btls Chassagne-Montrachet Blended from five different lieux-dits, we are delighted to be able to offer Fontaine- Gagnard s Chassagne-Montrachet rouge for the first time En Primeur. Céline explained that their Pinot Noir suffered less from the frost, perhaps due to their Cordon de Royat training system that retained more buds. The nose is very pretty and airy, balancing fresh strawberry fruit with darker cherry notes. Silky and seductive on the palate, there is excellent maturity of fruit and tannin here, but the overriding sensation is one of freshness and refinement. hint of peat at the very last suggests something more serious will emerge given time in the cellar Btls Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Caillerets Les Caillerets sits on the slope above Morgeot and Champs Gains, Jean-Marc s vines were planted in fresh and salty nose, with hints of ginger and white flowers. The palate is led by citrus notes, fleshed out by white stone fruits. This is a super Les Caillerets, classically styled, with minerality and precision to the fore Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, Vergers Clos Saint Marc Clos Saint Marc is a walled vineyard within the Premier Cru Les Vergers, on the northern border with Le Montrachet to the north. It s widely considered to be the domaine s best plot, not least because the venerable old vines here were planted in Showing excellent freshness on the nose, with citrus notes of zesty grapefruit, and riper tangerine aromas. The palate is taut, superb concentration here, but not at the expense of freshness. The combination of power, minerality, and length is particularly impressive, this is nudging Grand Cru level Btls Btls Domaine Jean-Marc Pillot Jean-Marc took over from his father in 1991, and currently has 11 hectares throughout Chassagne-Montrachet, which he manages alongside his wife, Nadine, and his sister, Bérénice. They are fortunate to have a high proportion of old vines, with most aged between years, and vines in their plot in Clos Saint Marc reaching 100 years. These wines have a lovely balance between immediate appeal and potential for cellaring over the medium term. Domaine Gagnard-Delagrange In addition to his fine work with his father at Blain-Gagnard, Marc-ntonin Blain has been making the wine for his grandmother at his late grandfather Jacques Gagnard s estate since Marc-ntonin worked in the cellar alongside Jacques for three years, and continues the traditional style that the domaine is known and loved for Chassagne-Montrachet Usually a blend of two parcels, this was sadly affected by frost and only 3 ½ barrels have been produced instead of the normal 5 ½. The nose is floral and fresh, with green and yellow orchard fruits. The palate is silky, freshened by zesty acidity and a pleasant nuttiness on the finish Btls tbc 2016 Chassagne-Montrachet Zesty citrus aromas on the nose, fleshed out with green apple. The palate is supple and fresh, with bright acidity and a creamy texture to the mouthfeel. With a touch of pistachio on the finish, this is a classy Chassagne-Montrachet villages that will drink well on release Puligny-Montrachet, Les Noyers Brets ppropriately for a predominantly Chassagne producer, Les Noyers Brets lies at the southern extremity of Puligny, not far from the Chassagne border. If you head east from Bienvenues Bâtard-Montrachet, Les Noyers Brets sits just under Les Enseignères. The vines were planted White peach and wet stones on the nose, the palate is cool and saline, with a marked mineral note. Revealing excellent precision, this is a superior lieu-dit that is punching above its weight in Btls Btls Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, Morgeot blend of two parcels, with the majority coming from a high-altitude site on the Santenay side, which fortunately escaped the worst of the frost. Taut and defined, this is atypically reticent, but with time in the glass subtle notes of spice and minerals emerge. Fine acidity adds tension on the palate, this is a serious Morgeot that merits time in the cellar Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, La Boudriotte La Boudriotte is located within the grounds of the Morgeot abbey and is technically a lieu-dit of the larger Morgeot Premier Cru. Larger scaled and more expansive than Morgeot at this early stage, with plenty of fleshy stone fruit notes and a whiff of struck match. Impressively concentrated on the mid-palate, this is a generous Boudriotte of considerable appeal Btls tbc Btls tbc Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 13

9 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune Domaine Jean-Louis Chavy The majority of the domaine s vines were planted by Jean-Louis father and grandfather and are now years old. Jean-Louis is happy with his 2016s, which he describes as, Fresher than 2015, but with lower acidities than His vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet were blessedly spared the worst of the frost that blighted neighbouring Chassagne-Montrachet Puligny-Montrachet, Les Charmes Jean-Louis shares this lieu-dit parcel with his brother, lain. This punches above its weight, with textbook aromas of citrus, green apple, and almond. Fresh, but fleshy on the palate, there is plenty to enjoy here, with stone fruits and a refreshing mineral twist on the finish. Likely to be good value Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Clavoillons Jean-Louis has a small proportion of 55 year old vines in this vineyard, made famous by Domaine Leflaive. Mineral, nutty aromas on the nose, with an appetising herbal note of fennel and mint. There is excellent persistence on the palate, which is defined and sleek, with a tangy citrus note on the finish. Very good Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Perrières The nose is dialed back in comparison to Les Clavoillons, with white peach and citrus fruits. There are palate-staining quantities of stone fruits, this is very serious, but with a playful side thanks to the generosity of the fruit. There is a spicy tang on the finish adding freshness Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Folatières blend of two plots, one from the steepest, stoniest part of Folatières, close to Blagny, and the other from lower down the slope on richer soil. The combination of the two terroirs gives a deft interplay between acidity, structure and richness. The nose is cool, with melon and grapefruit notes. The palate is more exotic, with apricots and brown spices. This is texturally very fine, and the finish is long and assured. This is a top notch Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru Btls Btls Btls Btls *Domaine Etienne Sauzet Puligny-Montrachet suffered less in general than neighbouring Chassagne-Montrachet, with 20-40% losses for Bourgogne and Villages wines. Bienvenues Bâtard-Montrachet, however, was badly stricken, with only 3 buckets of grapes picked from the entire plot. These have gone into the Puligny Montrachet villages. Benoît Riffault was pleased with the 2016s, describing them as, good surprise, pure and balanced between body and fruit, with beautiful energy Bourgogne, La Tufera Sauzet s 2016 Bourgogne Blanc is a blend of four plots that are just outside the Puligny border. fresh and vital Bourgogne Blanc, with citrus and riper tropical notes on the nose. The wine spends ten months in used oak barrels, typically 2-5 years old, and there is no overt oak influence here. The palate is tighter than 2015, with excellent energy and focus, this is a wonderful Bourgogne Blanc Puligny-Montrachet Sauzet have used a broader palette this year, with 12 different parcels from across the village included. Each plot is vinified separately and then blended together, and the result is a textbook example of Puligny-Montrachet. ged in barrel for 11 months, with approximately 15% new oak. Plenty of green apple and yellow stone fruits on the nose, with a touch of spice. The palate is finely balanced, with almond and minerals, and a saline note on the finish. This is all about purity, freshness and finesse Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, La Garenne La Garenne is located at the top of the steep, stony slopes near Blagny, where the poor soils have a high limestone content. Happily, La Garenne was not affected by frost or mildew in The nose is racy, very mineral, and tinged with flint and citrus. Yellow fruits on the palate, what is so impressive here is the acidity, which gives so much energy and drive across the palate. disarming scent of spiced butter at the last completes what is a really well judged Premier Cru, with elegance and refinement to spare Btls Btls Btls Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Champ Gain Sauzet s parcel of Champ Gain is located at the northern extremity of the vineyard, adjacent to Premier Cru La Trufière. The soils are deeper here, with some clay, and large rocks, with the nearby woodlands providing shelter from the elements. These factors combine to create a suntrap, which is immediately evident upon tasting the wine. Flamboyantly fruited, and with excellent richness and density, there is so much to enjoy here, and you can t help but savour the nutty, spicy flavours. There is plenty of acidity to keep things in check, and despite the density there is no overt suggestion of heaviness. The finish is long, and has a bracingly saline note, there is so much energy here Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 15

10 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune 2016 Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Perrières This plot of Perrières is at the start of the slope, on deep clay mixed with limestone. s the name suggests, there are plenty of small stones in the vineyard that provide good drainage, and the site is easy to work. This is a stunning nose, with white flowers, flint, and maritime notes. The palate is very classy, even at this early stage, there is not a hair out of place. playful note of lemon sherbet floats across the palate, but the predominant flavours are mineral and saline. The acidity is high, but perfectly pitched. Really very good indeed, this is Puligny-Montrachet at its most suave expression Btls Domaine Michelot Michelot have been producing wine for six generations, today almost all of Michelot s 19 hectares produce white wine from Meursault. They were badly affected by frost in their Bourgogne and Village appellations, fortunately, the Premier Crus were not so badly hit. Michelot were amongst the first to harvest in Meursault in 2016, they picked September. They continue to refine their winemaking and ageing techniques, with larger demi-muid barrels becoming increasingly important Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Champ-Canet Champ-Canet is located on the middle slope, adjacent to Meursault Perrières. Sauzet s vines are old, with the majority replanted in the 1940s; they retain one small parcel of 90 year old vines. The old vines yield small, concentrated grapes and there is more than a hint of Meursault character here. pricots and tropical fruits abound across the nose and the palate, with considerable creaminess and richness, but not at the expense of focus. Benoit describes Perrières as having a cold minerality vs. the hot minerality of Champ-Canet, the two are fascinating to compare and contrast Btls Meursault Michelot s 2016 village Meursault is a blend of six parcels from across the appellation, utilising the full diversity of soil types and terroirs. The nose is airy and fresh, with grapefruit and stone fruits, and a subtle smokiness. The palate expresses the weight and texture of the appellation perfectly, with green orchard fruits, refreshing citrus notes, and a creamy texture on the finish. Very well played Meursault Premier Cru, Les Charmes Michelot s Charmes sits at the top of the slope, adjacent to the Puligny-Montrachet border. This is a lithe and expressive Charmes, with chalky and mineral notes to the fore. The palate is chiseled and fresh, expressing a cool, stony minerality that is offset by riper citrus notes on the finish Btls Btls Meursault Premier Cru, Perrières Meursault Perrières is wonderfully ripe and forward in 2016, with pretty floral notes of lilac and blossom that interplay with apricot and peach fruits. Particularly intense on the palate, but also revealing wonderful transparency, the quality of the site is very apparent here. With a creamy texture across the palate, and a lick of spice at the finish, this is a very stylish and accessible Meursault Perrières Btls Domaine Patrick Javillier Patrick Javillier took over his father s tiny Meursault domaine in 1974, and has gradually increased his holdings, he now has ten hectares that are 80% white and 20% red. The domaine was sadly touched by frost in The Bourgogne Blanc was not badly affected, but parts of Meursault and Corton-Charlemagne were stricken Bourgogne Blanc Cuvée Oligocène Tasted from tank, two weeks prior to bottling. The fruit for Oligocène comes from Les Pellans, a limestone soil located on the Meursault side of the border with Puligny- Montrachet. This cuvée always ranks amongst the best values in proper white Burgundy, and the 2016 looks set to match their terrific 2014 vintage. Citrus and stone fruits on the nose, the palate is pleasingly textured and fleshy, with ripe, juicy peach fruit. Very moreish! 2016 Meursault, Les Tillets To be bottled in November. Les Tillets sits above the Meursault Premier Crus, near the top of the hill, and in the middle of the other lieux-dits. Combining freshness with richness, there is rather more verve and nerve here than is typical. Both mineral and silky in texture, this is impressively refined and opulent for its level Btls Btls Domaine Michel Bouzereau The Bouzereau name is woven into the fabric of Meursault, and seventh generation Jean-Baptiste Bouzereau took over winemaking responsibility from his famous father Michel around fifteen years ago. Jean-Baptiste was in a philosophical mood regarding the well-documented challenges of 2016, reminding us that we had a largely uninterrupted run of successful yields between , and if one goes back into the previous decades of the 20th Century the situation was rather different. His 2016s are wines of compelling luminosity, texture, and balance Meursault, Les Grands Charrons Les Grands Charrons is Bouzereau s basic Meursault blended from plots on the limestone soils of the slope, and the heavier clay soils lower down. There is nothing entry level about the wine, which is wonderfully expressive, with the hallmark fleshy fruits and nutty complexity that Meursault is renowned for. The palate is very well pitched, with bright acidity that complements the supple texture and creamy finish. Jean-Baptiste believes that this is best drunk on the fruit in its first flush of youth, whilst we certainly agree with that assessment, it will also evolve happily for 3-5 years in bottle Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 17

11 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune 2016 Meursault Premier Cru, Les Charmes Dessus Les Charmes Dessus is at the upper extremity of the Les Charmes Premier Cru, just below Meursault Perrières. White peach and pears on the nose, the palate is finely-boned, yet expansive, revealing swathes of green and yellow fruits, backed by lip-smacking acidity. salty tang on the finish adds complexity, this is a lovely Meursault Premier Cru of considerable class Btls Meursault Premier Cru, ux Perrières Planted in 1937, this plot is situated slightly above the main body of Perrières, next to Coche Dury. The transparency of terroir is one of the greatest qualities of 2016, and Darviot-Perrin s Perrières is wonderfully and completely different to their Genevrières, despite the proximity of the vines. More focused and mineral on the nose, and the palate is similarly sleek and soulful. You can taste the rocks here, and the finish is so long and finely textured Btls Meursault Premier Cru, Les Genevrières Initially rather reserved on the nose, with subtle notes of almond and candied citrus peel. The palate is expressive in terms of minerality rather than fruit at this early stage, but there is a sense of reserved power and this Genevrières is clearly holding plenty back in the tank. wine of balance, elegance, and refinement, the transparency here is particularly impressive Btls Volnay Premier Cru, Les Santenots Santenots is south of Volnay, and is actually located in Meursault, but its red wines are allowed to use the Volnay appellation. The soil type here is equally suited for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with limestone over red clay, and large stones at the surface. n expressive nose of red and black berry fruits, with a playful note of peony. The palate has a wonderfully silky texture, very relaxed, but there is a discrete core of tannins and a mineral seam that suggest that this will cellar well Btls *Domaine Darviot-Perrin With the exception of one plot planted in 1982, the minimum vine age at Darviot-Perrin is 50 years and some are over 100 years old. They favour old selection massale vines over their modern counterparts. Their cellars are amongst the coolest in Burgundy, resulting in slow fermentations, and they adopt an organic mind-set but retain flexibility by remaining uncertified. Dider Darviot learned his craft from his wife s father, Pierre Perrin. Today, the husband and wife team are ably assisted by their daughter, lix. Maison Roche de Bellène & Domaine de Bellène Nicolas Potel has access to some of the best Premier and Grand Cru vineyards in the region for his Maison Roche de Bellène wines. He also has also been steadily acquiring parcels of old vines for his Domaine de Bellène wines, which are all grown using biodynamic methods. Nicolas compares the 2016 reds to 1991, because of their richness and concentration due to the low yields. Some of the 2016s will be bottled under the Bellène Hommage label, where Nicolas has bought fruit to augment his domaine holdings that were badly affected by frost Puligny-Montrachet, Vieilles Vignes Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. The old vines here are a minimum of 45 years old. Yellow citrus and green orchard fruits on the nose, the palate is vibrant and juicy, with flavours of nuts and brioche adding complexity to the finish. This old vine Puligny is punching above its weight in Btls Meursault, Clos de la Velle Clos de la Velle is a small, walled vineyard of clay over limestone at the eastern extremity of Meursault, shared with only one other producer. It was planted in the 1950s. Lime blossom and ginger on the nose, the palate has an appetizing bitterness, with tangy grapefruit, and riper baked lemon notes adding complexity. The texture, concentration, and vibrancy here is very impressive Meursault Premier Cru, Genevrières From vines planted in 1951, located just north of Premier Cru Perrières. High toned and floral, with an exotic lemongrass note. The combination of old vines, and the reduced yields of 2016 have combined to produce a wine of great instensity and power; this is very Meursault, but with the volume dialed way up Btls Btls Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Folatiéres Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. Premier Cru Folatiéres lies mid slope, at approximately the same level as Grand Crus Chevalier-Montrachet and Montrachet, but further north. very floral nose, exuberant and expressive. The palate is similarly inviting, with stone fruits and a riper hint of mango, which is refreshed by a saline minerality at the finish Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. very mineral nose, with limestone and slate, refreshed by pear and a touch of fig. The palate shows excellent vibrancy and energy, with a wonderfully saline note, and the intensity builds towards a very long finish Le Montrachet, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. Reserved power on the nose, with citrus and stone fruits, almonds and a touch of manuka honey. The palate is lavishly textured and classy, with riper stone fruits and that note of honey again at the finish. There is a line of saline acidity running through the core like a current, this is seriously good Btls Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 19

12 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune 2016 Beaune Premier Cru, Grèves Bottled under the Bellène Hommage label. Blackberry and cherry fruits on the nose, and a touch of graphite. The nose invites you in, and the palate is rather more serious, with plenty of graphite and mineral notes. The tannins are firmly textured, but the fruit cushions them adeptly and the finish is vibrant and long Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, Vieilles Vignes Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label, a blend of three different sites. Very much in the red fruit spectrum on the nose, with sweet spices and florals. The palate has good weight, with fleshy berry fruits, and a creamy texture that envelops the tannins and plays off against the acidity. This is a very good Vosne Villages Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru, Lavaut Saint-Jacques Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. n inviting nose of red and blue berry fruits, immediately appealing and lifted by violet highlights. The palate is pretty, and generously fruited, the tannins are sweet and subtle, this is very light on its feet and the finish is long and stylish. Very good Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru, Chaignots Bottled under the Bellène Hommage label. Plums and sloes on the nose, finessed with hints of smoke and minerals. Chaignots is on the Vosne side of the village, but this is very classically Nuits-Saint Georges, firmly structured, quite strict at this stage, but with plenty of power and depth in reserve. The purity of fruit is particularly impressive, and it should develop well with time Btls Btls Btls Btls Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, ux Malconsorts Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. ux Malconsorts is located immediately below Grand Cru La Tâche, and is probably Vosne s most famous Premier Cru. Darkly fruited across the nose and the palate, with gamey notes and a floral lift. The palate is silky and suavely textured, there is a lot of immediate appeal here, but the maturity and ripeness of tannin, and the length of the finish suggests that that there will be plenty of upside in the cellar Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, Les moureuses Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. The evocatively named Les moureuses is located just below Grand Cru La Musigny, Nicolas sources fruit from two growers. Pure strawberry and red cherry on the nose, this is sweetly fruited and expressive. There is a tenderness on the palate, with soft, supple tannins, this is very much led by acidity and purity of fruit. The finish is long, this is a very finely honed Premier Cru. Lovely Griotte-Chambertin, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. With a total area of 2.69 hectares, Griotte-Chambertin is the smallest Grand Cru in Gevrey-Chambertin. In the Côte d Or only Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet, Romanée-Conti, and La Romanée are smaller. Cherries and chamomile tea on the nose, subtly engaging and softly fruited. The palate is similarly refined, this certainly isn t a blockbuster, but is delicately structured and very refined. very classy Grand Cru, that definitely merits your attention Btls Btls Btls Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, Les Groseilles Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. The Premier Cru Les Groseilles is located just east of the village, sandwiched between Premier Crus Les Noirots, Les Combottes, and ux Beaux Bruns. Cranberries and raspberries on the nose, with attractive notes of rose petals. The palate is more savoury than the nose might suggest, with excellent definition, and crisp acidity providing focus. The finish is long and perfumed, this is a lovely result from one of Chambolle s lesser-known Premier Crus and is likely to be good value Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, Les Rouges Dessus Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. Les Rouges Dessus is located by the treeline, immediately above the Echézeaux Grand Cru zones of Les Champs Traversins and Les Rouges du Bas. pretty nose of petals and red berries, with fresh mushroom and mineral notes. The palate is finely cut and savoury, with crunchy red and blue fruits that are complemented by subtle tannins and a fresh acidity Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, Les Suchots Bottled under the Bellène Hommage label. Premier Cru Les Suchots separates Echézeaux from Romanée-Saint-Vivant, and is one of Vosne s finest Premier Crus. Fresh redcurrant and berry aromas on the nose, sweetened with a touch of rose petals. The palate is classically styled, quite firm at present, there is no excess fat here! Very well balanced, all of the components are here and the tannins gently grip on the finish. This should cellar well Btls Btls Btls Clos de la Roche, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. Sour cherries on the nose, with mint and violets. The palate is densely stacked, with exotic spices and a green tea note. The tannins have a velvet texture, and act as a fine foil to the bright acidity. There is a mineral core that runs right through to the finish, very impressive Bonnes-Mares, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. The Bonnes-Mares is darkly fruited, savoury notes of smoke and sweeter licorice adding complexity. Plums and damsons on the palate, which is showing some wood at this early stage, but the depth and concentration of fruit is impressive, and there is more than enough here to merit that framework. This is a proper Bonnes-Mares, and one to afford plenty of time in the cellar Echézeaux, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. deft blend of red and black fruits on the nose and the palate, with fresh mushrooms and florals adding interest. The palate has superb freshness, this is wonderfully transparent and refined, and already singing at this early stage. The tannins are present, but almost imperceptible in the background. Very fine Grands-Echézeaux, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. The Grands-Echézeaux is darker and more powerful than its junior, with sloes, plums, and herbal notes. The palate is initially reserved, the tannins are large-scaled but velvet smooth, and act as a fine foil to the ripeness of the fruit. The finish is long, very saline, and with a minerality that wraps around the tannic grip Btls Btls Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 21

13 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune 2016 Chambertin Clos de Bèze, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. The Bèze is more forward than Chambertin, with cherries, strawberry jam, and a hint of orange blossom adding a zesty freshness. The palate is tannic, but they are already so supple and ripe, and it is the purity of fruit that is allowed to come to the fore. Really excellent Chambertin, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. More reserved than the Bèze, very mineral and brooding. The fruit has already taken the oak, and it is layer after layer of mineral extract and fruit tannin that dominate the palate at this early stage. So much structure here, but also transparency, it only needs time for everything to come together Richebourg, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. Violets, black cherries and spiced plum on the nose, but the real story here is the palate, which is lavishly textured with chocolate tannins, berry fruits and earl grey tea adding freshness. The finish is deep and rich, with a stony minerality adding graphite to the party. This merits time in the cellar to really blossom and reveal its full character Btls Btls Btls Bourgogne Rouge The Pinot Noir for Bachelet-Monnot s Bourgogne comes from Maranges, Puligny- Montrachet, and the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune. It s raised in older oak barrels for ten months, before racking into concrete vats for a further eight months. Very pure strawberry fruits on the nose, with violet notes. There s a lovely purity on the palate, very fresh, with crunchy berry and currant fruits and supple tannins. This will be delicious immediately upon release Maranges Premier Cru, La Fussière Bachelet-Monnot own eleven acres of La Fussière, making it the most significant holding of the domaine. The average age of the vines is 45 years, and some are as old as 80 years old. There are eleven different parcels, planted relatively high on the slopes of limestone chalk. 25% whole bunch and 25% new oak. very pretty, red-fruited nose, airy and fresh. The palate is lively and focused, there is admirable tension here, built around a delicate frame. Very pretty indeed Btls Btls Romanée-Saint-Vivant, Grand Cru Bottled under the Roche de Bellène label. pure and powerful nose of spiced fruits and sous bois, with mineral notes. The palate has a lavish quantity of mocha tannins, chocolate-coated berry fruits and an herbal lift adding freshness. There is an energy and tension on the finish that is very appealing Btls Domaine Bachelet-Monnot Brothers Marc & lex formed this exciting domaine in 2005, with the assistance of their father (Jean-François), and their Uncle Monnot. combination of family-owned vineyards and long-term leases have enabled them to farm 20 hectares of vines. Located in the beautiful village of Dezizelès-Maranges, it s well worth the diversion south from Chassagne-Montrachet and Santenay. We are delighted to offer the wines En Primeur for the first time, and 2016 is an exciting vintage to start with. Domaine ntonin Guyon Domaine ntonin Guyon has an enviable portfolio, comprising 48 hectares across the Côte d Or. They are currently in the process of obtaining organic certification, with the first vintage scheduled to be Sadly, several appellations were hit by frost, and volumes are down 50% on average. Fortunately, what has been produced is seriously impressive! Dominique Guyon, his daughter Hombeline, and cellar master Vincent Nicot are producing wines with a clarity and transparency that is very appealing Meursault Premier Cru, Les Charmes Dessus 0.69 hectare parcel on white marl soil. Les Charmes Dessus is in the upper part of Meursault Charmes, next to Premier Crus Les Genevrières and Les Perrières. smoky, mineral nose, with green apple and citrus fruits. The palate is more expansive, with riper stone fruit and spiced pear flavours, refreshed by a bracing acidity that adds drive and focus Btls Bourgogne Blanc This is a Bourgogne of particularly fine breeding, all of the Chardonnay is from Bourgogne classified vineyards within the commune of Puligny-Montrachet. The average age of the vines is over 40 years and the wine is raised with 15% new oak barrels. Lovely, spicy, nutty notes on the nose, you can sense the vibrancy here and it s immediately appealing. The palate is nimbly woven, with silky, creamy, textures and bright acidity adding refreshment. delicious Bourgogne Blanc! Btls Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Les Pucelles The most highly prized of Puligny s Premier Crus, Les Pucelles is located adjacent to Grand Crus Bâtard and Bienvenues-Bâtard Montrachet. Planted on a combination of clay over limestone, just 3 barrels are produced from this small plot. White peach and almonds on the nose, very classic and defined. The palate is finely textured, with citrus fruits adding freshness and riper stone fruits and smoky mineral notes adding complexity. This is a very fine Les Pucelles Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 23

14 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune 2016 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 0.85 hectare blend of two parcels, with the majority of the blend coming from Le Charlemagne, complemented by a parcel from Le Corton. There is a lot of vibrancy and energy on the nose, which smells taut and tightly wound, with chalky, saline, mineral aromas. The palate is similarly focused, with nutty, cereal flavours and citrus notes. With time in the glass, a creaminess emerges, and a touch of sweet spice, this is a lovely Grand Cru that will need time to unfurl. It may rival their superb 2014 in time Btls Maison Pascal Clement Pascal Clement comes from a family of winemakers, and he has over 20 years experience working at some of the top domaines in Burgundy, including with Jean- François Coche at Coche-Dury. Pascal set up his own micro-negociant business in 2012, and his connections give him access to a superb selection of terroirs. He currently produces wine from 30 appellations across the Côte d Or and Côte Chalonnaise. His whites have more than a hint of the Coche- Dury style, we were particularly impressed upon tasting them in November, and are delighted to offer them here for the first time Rully, Les Cailloux The lieu-dit Les Cailloux descends down the slope from one of the highest points in Rully, offering stunning views of the Rully valley below, and the Côtes Chalonnaise beyond. s the name suggests, there are many stones on the surface of the vineyard, which absorb the heat of the sun and radiate it out in the evening. Citrus fruits and white flowers on the nose, which is airy and refreshing. The palate is similarly zesty, with a touch of citrus pith and peel. Only 20% new oak here, and larger oak is employed, the resulting wine is very sensitively made and well balanced Btls Gevrey-Chambertin, La Justice ntonin Guyon own 2.58 hectares of this lieu-dit that is located just east of the village of Gevrey. The soil type is particularly complex, with varying proportions of clay, limestone and silt. 25% new oak. Red and black fruits on the nose, very primary and fresh. The palate is sweetly fruited, this is a very open and charming Gevrey lieu-dit, with immediate appeal Gevrey-Chambertin, Carougeot The lieu-dit Carougeot is located just south of the village of Gevrey, and touches Premier Cru La Perrière at its South West extremity. Much darker on the nose than La Justice, pure black fruits and earthy, chocolate notes. The palate is densely structured and spicy, with plenty of tannic backbone and a touch of coffee at the finish. This should cellar well Volnay Premier Cru, Clos des Chênes 0.87 hectare parcel of 40 year old vines in Clos des Chênes, one of Volnay s top Premier Crus. 30% new oak used. Crunchy red and blue fruits on the nose and the palate, there is lovely texture here, silky and supple. Combining richness of fruit on the palate, with freshness and poise, this is a charming Volnay Premier Cru Btls Btls Btls Saint-Romain Pascal s grapes come from a well-sited location on the slope, at relatively high altitude of metres. The soil is limestone over marl, perfect for producing refined Chardonnay. Pears and apricots on the nose, this is immediately richer and more exotic than the Rully. Spicy on the palate, with buttery, brioche notes adding complexity. This is a delicious Saint-Romain, balancing the sunny aspects of the site with a refreshing acidity and discrete use of oak Pernand Vergelesses Premier Cru, Sous Frétille Only one barrel produced. Sous Frétille is a terrific Premier Cru, tucked away behind the hill of Corton and overlooking the village of Pernand. It s a relatively high altitude site, on poor soils, producing wines of great refinement and ageability. n attractive citrus nose, with hints of wet stones, leading to a riper palate of stone fruits and toasted almonds. There s a lovely balance here, and a strong mineral component on the finish. It will be approachable early on, but will gain in complexity with time in the cellar Btls Btls Corton Clos du Roi, Grand Cru 0.55 hectare parcel of year old vines, exceptionally sited mid-slope facing south-east. Now that is a nose! Dark berries, cherries and plums combine with mineral notes of graphite and smoke. The palate is broad-shouldered, but has excellent maturity of tannins and purity of fruit. The length is excellent, we are undisputedly in Grand Cru territory here. The 2015 was one of our best-selling wines of the year, and this is a worthy follow up Btls Vosne-Romanée super blend of two contrasting parcels, Champs Gourdin, which lies just east of the village, and Les Barreaux, which is located high above by the tree line, immediately above the iconic Cros Parantoux. stylish nose of red and blue fruits, the palate shows fleshy berry fruits wrapped in stylish oak, which adds creaminess and density. This is a very pretty Vosne villages, with a subtle saline note on the finish Btls tbc Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 25

15 Côte de Beaune Côte de Beaune Domaine Bouchard Père et Fils Bouchard Père et Fils have built up the biggest domaine in the Côte d Or, with 130 hectares of vines that includes 12 hectares of Grand Cru and 74 hectares of Premier Cru. lthough they are well positioned to survive the worst effects of the weather in terms of their diversity of terroirs, they still suffered devastating damage, with the complete loss of their parcels in Clos de Vougeot nd Echézeaux Meursault, Les Clous The lieu-dit les Clous is located high on the slopes above the village of Meursault, in between Les Tillets and Les Vireuils. vibrant and expressive nose of honeydew melon and white peach, with subtle floral highlights. The palate has good tension, with creaminess playing off against minerality, and a saline note on the finish. This is very moreish! Btls Volnay Premier Cru, Caillerets, ncienne Cuvée Carnot Volnay Caillerets is particularly special to Bouchard, the 3.2 hectare plot was the first that they purchased back in It can also lay claim to being one of the best terrors in the Côte de Beaune. Damsons and sloes on the nose, refreshed with mineral notes of crushed rocks. The palate is dense and darkly structured, but the finish is particularly impressive, mineral-soaked and savoury Btls Meursault Premier Cru, Genevrières Bouchard have 2.4 hectares of Genevrières, bought in 1976, and split across two parcels. The nose combines apricots, almond, and honey. On the palate a fresher zesty citrus note emerges, cushioned by peachy fruit flavours and a lick of butter on the finish Chevalier-Montrachet, Grand Cru Bouchard own 2.5 hectares, giving them the largest share of Chevalier-Montrachet with 30% of the total area, and making them the only producer to have plots on all four terraces. romatically, this is a clear indicator that we are in Grand Cru territory, with a complex array of citrus and stone fruits, minerals, and floral aromas. Excellent freshness on the palate, which balances mouth-watering melon fruits with riper nectarine notes. Bright acidity adds elegance and focus, there is the slightest wisp of oak on the finish before a touch of salt at the last Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru Bouchard s Corton-Charlemagne is located at the highest point of the Grand Cru, at the top of the slope by the forest, facing east. It s a cold spot for Chardonnay and is always the last to be picked. The nose is cool and airy, with notes of grapefruit and chalk dust. There is a strictness to the palate, plenty of backbone here, with wellintegrated oak, freshly cut ginger, and lime cordial Btls Btls Btls Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru, Les Cailles one hectare parcel to the south of the village on white, chalky soil. Bouchard struck a deal with Henri Boillot in 1998, and swapped a plot of Volnay Fremiets for this plot of Les Cailles. 50% whole bunch used. classic Nuits style, dark and somewhat foreboding! The freshness of the berry and currant fruits is particularly exciting, the tannins are firmly gripping at this early stage, but the maturity is all there. The balance of power, ripeness, and freshness is excellent Beaune du Château Premier Cru Bouchard have been producing this cuvée since 1907, which is a blend of various different Premier Cru vineyards in Beaune. There are some excellent terroirs here, but they often don t get individual recognition, and Bouchard feel that this blend produces particularly special results. The nose is very expressive, with juicy red and blue fruits and peony notes. There is good freshness on the palate, with firm tannins as you would expect, but there is enough gloss and shine to keep things appealing. There is a spicy, peppery note on the finish that encourages another taste Le Corton, Grand Cru Bouchard s 3.6 hectares on the hill are east facing at an altitude of 320m, making it the highest Pinot Noir plantings on the hill, and the highest vineyard in Bouchard s portfolio. It is farmed biodynamically. Black cherries on the nose, with smoked meat and meat jus notes. The tannin management on the palate is impressive, silky and refined, with only the most gentle grip on the finish. There is such transparency of terroir and purity of fruit here, it should represent terrific value Btls Btls Btls Chambertin, Clos de Bèze, Grand Cru Bouchard use a 0.94 hectare plot of Clos de Bèze for this cuvée, which comes from one source. The fruit character is distinctly dark here, with notes of earth, liquorice, and black pepper. The palate is tightly wound and somewhat closed at this early stage, with significant tannins that are very well judged against the concentration of fruit and oak. With an appetising beef reduction note on the finish, this is a very strong Clos de Bèze in Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 27

16 Côte de Nuits

17 Côte de Nuits Domaine Faiveley The most significant Dupont-Tisserandot vineyards have now been incorporated into the domaine s holdoings, particularly Les Cazetiers and Mazis-Chambertin. Faively have also completed the renovations of their premises in Nuits this year, it is looking particularly impressive and their 2016 vintage is equally stylish. Nothing comes cheap on the Cote de Nuits, but if you re looking for diamonds (or red rubies) this is the best mine to prospect in Lettie TEGUE 2016 Meursault Premier Cru, Les Charmes Produced from a small parcel at the top of Les Charmes, the nose is ripe and expressive, with apricot fruits and meadow flowers. Excellent concentration and density on the palate, matched by bright acidity and a seam of minerality that adds class and length to the finish Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cu, La Garenne 0.19 hectare parcel at relatively high altitude, which is reflected in the elegant nose of citrus fruit, almond and blossom. Green apple on the palate, showing lovely depth and vibrant acidity. With mineral extract on the finish, this is a complex Premier Cru that will develop further complexity and nuance Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru The nose balances peach and apricot fruits, with a subtle suggestion of tangerine. The palate is more reserved at this early stage, more reflective of texture and balance than overt fruit characters. There is a racy, nervy minerality on the finish, which suggests it will age well Btls Btls Btls Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru, Les Cazetiers Faiveley are now the biggest holder of Les Cazetiers, which is superbly located in the middle of the slope. The nose is expressive, with fresh berries, cherries, and an herbal note of lavender. The palate is well proportioned, this is built upon finesse rather than overt power, the tannins are silky and discrete, whilst the finish is long and succulently fruited. Very fine Btls Corton Grand Cru, Clos des Cortons Faiveley Clos des Cortons Faiveley is in good company, being one of only two C Monopoles in Burgundy that take the owner s name (the other being Romanée-Conti). Darkly fruited on the nose, with black cherries and plums, and sous bois notes adding complexity and intrigue. The palate is muscular, there is impressive definition and focus here, with firm tannins that set the stage for extended development in the cellar. There is a floral lift on the finish that ends on a playful note Btls The Northern part of the Côte d Or, this is predominantly Pinot Noir country, although a relatively few classy whites are made. Named after the main town of Nuits-Saint-Georges, whose wines tend towards sturdiness and longevity, the quality arguably reaches its apogee in Vosne-Romanée, where the finest Grand Crus are located. Those seeking elegance and perfume would be best served heading to Chambolle-Musigny, whilst for raw power, Gevrey-Chambertin is king Latricières-Chambertin, Grand Cru Faiveley s plot of Latricières represents one of their oldest holdings, with 1.21 hectares purchased in the 1860s. The vines were replanted in 1958, 1984 and The 2016 Latricières is appetisingly fresh, with pure red and blue fruits and a floral perfume. The palate continues in the same vein, but with saline notes and a wet stony minerality adding a serious tone to the fruit. Latricières is a relatively cool site, but it has achieved full maturity here and the results are very impressive Mazis-Chambertin, Grand Cru The 2016 Mazis now includes the Dupont-Tisserandot vineyards, which complement Faiveley s own plots, which date back to 1937, 1959, and Crisp, fresh red cherries on the nose, with rose petal aromas. The palate is sweetly fruited, with riper strawberry fruits that are balanced by a savoury earthiness. The finish is pleasingly persistent, this should drink well in relative youth, but also age well Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 31

18 Côte de Nuits Côte de Nuits Domaine Odoul-Coquard This is our third vintage with Sebastian Odoul, former rugby player turned talented winemaker. His close friend rnaud Mortet was amongst the first to highlight the quality here, and Neal Martin has tasted the 2016s, his first visit to the domaine. We loved them from the 2014 vintage, the 2015s last year were an upgrade, but 2016 is set to be his best vintage to date. Domaine nne-françoise Gros nne-françoise and François Children, Mathias and Caroline, are the 13th generation of this great Burgundian wine dynasty. We tasted through the 2016s with Mathias, who revealed that 2016 has produced the smallest volumes in the history of the domaine. What has been produced is very good indeed, it s such a shame that there is so little volume Bourgogne Rouge blend of two parcels, one in Chambolle-Musigny with 60 year old vines, and the second in Gevrey-Chambertin with 50 year old vines. No new oak here, and the purity and transparency of the fruit is to the fore, lifted by floral notes of violet. The palate is very swish and stylish, silky and supple. These venerable old vines have once again turned out a Bourgogne of considerable appeal. Very well done Btls Savigny-lès-Beaune Premier Cru, Clos des Guettes From a 0.5 hectare plot, planted via selection massale in The nose is fragrant, with bright berry and cherry fruits and a touch of rose petal. The palate is glossy, with ripe fruits and sous bois, adeptly framed by judicious oak. The finish is long and mineral, ending on a ferrous note. This is a very good example of the quality that can be produced from top Premier Cru sites in Savigny Pommard Premier Cru, Les Chanlins Premier Cru Les Chanlins is located on the Volnay side of Pommard, in between Volnay Premier Cru Les Pitures and Pommard Premier Cru Les Rugiens Haut. The Volnay influence is very apparent here, the nose is very much in the red fruit spectrum, and that theme continues onto the palate. Very well balanced, and built around a medium bodied frame, the purity of fruit shines through here and the finish is mouth-wateringly fresh and savoury Vosne-Romanée, ux Réas The ux Réas lieu-dit is an extension of the Premier Cru Clos de Réas. Happily, there was no significant damage in 2016 and normal volumes have been produced. The red and black fruits are supple and crunchy, with notes of graphite and smoke adding depth. The palate is supported by supple tannins, whilst bright acidity adds clarity and focus. There is a gentle grip on the finish, suggesting this will age well, but it should also drink well early Echézeaux, Grand Cru 80 year old vines from the Champs-Traversins lieu-dit of Echézeaux, which is at the top of the slope and wasn t quite so badly affected by frost. Classic notes of red cherries and raspberries on the nose, with floral aromas. The palate is finely structured, yet expressive, with a balance of supple berry fruits and more savoury notes of earth and fresh mushrooms. The tannins are velvety and the finish is long and sweetly spiced Richebourg, Grand Cru With an average vine age of 80 years, 10% of this site is replanted each year. Only 6 ½ barrels produced in much darker nose here than the other wines, with notes of incense and vanilla. The palate is richly textured and opulent, with chocolate coated tannins that wrap around the crunchy berry fruits. There is a lightness of touch here despite the density, and it is very appealing. great Richebourg Btls Btls Btls Btls Btls Morey-Saint-Denis, Les Crais Gillon Sadly yields are low here, as the vineyard was affected by frost, and typically produces small bunches. Les Crais Gillon is located due east of the village, just below the Route des Grand Crus. 30% new oak. Darker fruits here, with subtle notes of spice and earth. Mulberries and spiced plum on the palate, with a creamy texture and silky tannins that are impressively ripe and unobtrusive. The finish is tinged with spice and salt, this is a very good Morey villages lieu-dit Chambolle-Musigny blend of 5 plots, ranging from 25 to 50 years old, with 30% new oak. This is textbook Chambolle-Musigny on the nose, with pretty strawberry and cherry fruit and violet florals. The palate is sleeker and more classic than the 2015 last year, with excellent purity and balance. The finish is long, confident, and refined Nuits-Saint-Georges, Les rgillats Les rgillats is located directly above the village of Nuits, on the Vosne side. It s mid slope, at the same elevation of Premier Cru Le Damodes. With 70 year old vines, these are the oldest holdings of the domaine. This has the power of Nuits and the perfume of Vosne, red berries and florals on the nose, but darker cherry and mineral notes on the palate. Silky tannins and bright acidity complete the finish, which is long and refined Morey-Saint-Denis Premier Cru, Clos la Riotte This has to be one of the best stories in Burgundy, the walled vineyard is owned collectively by the village of Morey and is leased to the domaine with the least Premier Cru vineyards, Odoul-Coquard. The clos has high walls and low trained vines, with rocky soil, and it is always amongst the first to be picked. The vines are 30 years old and the wine sees 50% new oak. Summer fruits on the nose, with characteristic Morey spices. The palate is savoury rather than sweetly fruited, with a strong mineral seam adding discipline. Very classic, this will age well and I m sure the village of Morey will be happy with the results Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru, ux Combottes ux Combottes is the southern extension of Grand Cru Latricières-Chambertin and Odoul-Coquard are the only domaine with vines running north to south, giving complete coverage of the terroir. Their oldest vines are 80 years old and 80% new oak is used. The nose is densely packed and brooding, with plum and black cherries, and notes of earth and dark chocolate. The palate is ambitiously scaled, the volume of tannins here is significant, but they are wonderfully ripe and chiseled, adding grip and tension to the finish. This is a very serious Premier Cru Gevrey Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru blend of two parcels, 85% of the blend is from 60 year old vines and 15% from 70 year old vines. 4 ½ barrels produced in Crunchy red berry and currant fruits, floral and vibrant. The palate is savoury, but the oak is so well integrated even at this early stage, allowing fruit and minerality to the fore. There is a lot of complexity here, and considerable potential for development in the cellar Btls Btls Btls Btls Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 33

19 Côte de Nuits Côte de Nuits 2016 Clos Vougeot Grand Cru Odoul-Coquard own seven rows, each 400m long and running top to bottom. The vines are on average 50 years old. Red and black fruits on the nose, with fresh mushroom notes and a mineral touch of smoke and flint. The palate has the pleasing structure and backbone that you would expect, but softened by fleshy plum fruit that cushions the tannins. There is plenty of appeal here, it s a very charming Clos Vougeot, and a great example of what can be achieved by blending the diversity of terroirs at Sebastien s disposal Btls Morey-Saint-Denis Premier Cru, Clos des Ormes Clos des Ormes is just underneath Clos de la Roche and has similar terroir, with a shallow surface layer of clay over rocky limestone. The nose is bright and expressive, with cherry fruits and violet floral notes. The palate is rather more serious, with a darker fruit quality emerging and structured tannins. The textbook spiciness of Morey appears at the finish, this is very well balanced Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, Les Suchots Les Suchots is a large Premier Cru that sits in between the Grand Crus of Vosne- Romanée. 100% whole bunch in n aromatic nose of blackcurrant and plum, lifted by violets and graphite. The palate is densely structured, with a high volume of tannins that are impressive for their ripeness and chocolate notes. This is will require time in the cellar to harmonise, but it will be worth the wait Btls Btls Maison Marchand-Tawse Pascal Marchand arrived in Burgundy in 1983, and having established his reputation at top domaines such as Bruno Clair and Comte rmand, he went solo in In partnership with fellow Canadian, Murray Tawse, they now have eight hectares of vineyards including Domaine Maume in Gevrey-Chambertin. The quantities are always sadly small, but in 2016 they are particularly low Clos Saint-Denis, Grand Cru Clos Saint-Denis is the smallest of the five Morey Grand Crus, smaller than monopole Clos de Tart and near-monopole Clos des Lambrays. 25% whole bunches and 66% new oak in The nose is very open at this early stage, with pretty red fruits underpinned by a wilder, gamey note. The palate is silky and fresh, with a refreshing minty note on the finish. This is impressive Btls Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, bbaye de Morgeot Only 2 barrels produced. The nose is lively, with grapefruit and lime blossom notes. One of the features of frost-affected Chassagne is concentration due to the low yields, and this is clear on the palate here, which densely fruited and textured. The fruit character is pure and expressive, with enough acidity to keep everything in balance. This is a powerful and rather exotic bbaye de Morgeot, which is well worth a look Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, Champ Gain Premier Cru Champ Gain sits just above Folatières, and the nose is classic Puligny, with citrus fruits and almond notes. The palate is nervy and focused, it s tighter than the 2015 and finely textured. The finish is very long and persistent, this is very good Corton-Charlemagne ll domaine fruit here, which is from the Le Charlemagne side of the hill, facing south. Three barrels produced, of which two are new oak. The nose is perfumed, with white flowers and yellow orchard fruits and blossom. The palate is expansive, with riper tropical fruits, and a spiced butter note adding texture and complexity. The finish is long and tinged with salt Btls Btls Btls Domaine Jean-Marc Millot Jean-Marc started bottling his own wines in 1992, but it wasn t until 1997 that he took control of other family vineyards to make the impressive range that we see today. s is so often the case at the best family domaines, Jean-Marc s daughter, lix, is increasingly influential in the process. These are terrific wines, sadly the domaine was badly affected by frost and several wines are available in quantities too small to offer here. They have only produced one barrel of Grands Echézeaux, compared to the usual volume of 3 ½ barrels Nuits-Saint-Georges, Les Longecourts n old vine parcel located under Premier Cru Les Saint Georges. 100% whole bunch used in densely fruited and Powerful Lieu-dit, with wonderful clarity of black berry and currant fruits and riper Black Forest notes on the palate adding complexity. Plenty to enjoy here, balanced by refreshing acidity and a savoury note of forest floor on the finish. Sadly only 200 bottles produced this year Volnay Premier Cru, Frémiets This is a domaine vineyard, located at a wonderful mid-slope position, next to the holdings of the Marquis d ngerville. Frémiets is on the Pommard side of Volnay and tends to have more structure. There is plenty of depth and concentration, with glossy black stone fruits and a hint of cassis. The tannins are well-mannered, and there is a subtle chalky, smoke note on the finish Btls Btls Côte de Nuits Villages, ux Faulques 1.8 hectare single vineyard in Comblanchien, just south of Nuits-Saint Georges. The average vine age is 35 years. ux Faulques is consistently one of our best value wines each year, and the 2016 is no exception. It s a return to a more classical style of 2014, following the extravagant 2015 last year. The nose is pretty and aromatic, with crunchy cranberry fruits and floral notes. The palate is sleek and silky, with an excellent maturity of tannins and fresh acidity adding focus and drinkability Echézeaux, Grand Cru Jean-Marc has three parcels in the heart of Echézeaux, with an average age of 35 years. The purity of fruit here is radiant and joyously expressive, clearly wearing its heart on its sleeve. The palate is sweetly fruited, with hints of truffle and sous bois adding complexity. The tannins are gentle, caressing the fruit and providing only the most discrete structure. This is a confident, relaxed Echézeaux that will be hard to resist in its youth, but will evolve superbly Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 35

20 Côte de Nuits Côte de Nuits *Domaine François Lamarche Domaine François Lamarche are sole owners of La Grande Rue, one of the four Grand Cru monopoles of Vosne-Romanée. The current generation, cousins Nicole and Nathalie Lamarche, have returned the domaine to the very top tier of Vosne-Romanée domaines. The tragedy here is in terms of volume, on average they are 50% down on last year, but the quality is exceptional. In 2016 Nicole chose to use no new oak for any of the wines, and the results are radiant in their transparency and beauty Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, Les Suchots Lamarche have 0.60 hectares of Les Suchots split into two parcels, with 40+ year old vines. dark and spicy nose of berry and cherry fruit, spiked with a hit of sloes. The palate is exceptionally sleek and refined, velvet tannins rub against a salty mineral note, there is a refined power here that is so impressive Btls tbc Domaine Bruno Clavelier Bruno started at the domaine in 1987 at the age of 23, the 2017 vintage will be his 30th, and there is little that he doesn t know about his vineyards and soil composition. The fact is clearly illustrated in his cellar, the table is strewn with rocks gathered from each vineyard. Bruno has six Premier Crus and one Grand Cru, with many of his vines in the year old range. Bruno farms organically and biodynamically, his 2016s have a beautiful purity and transparency Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, ux Malconsorts Malconsorts lies between the Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru ux Boudots and La Tâche, Lamarche have 0.60 hectares. Even darker than Les Suchots, with almost fathomless depth on the nose. There is such beautiful Pinot fruit on the palate, ethereal and silky, the finish is subtly and sweetly spiced. This is such a tender, refined Malconsorts, the transparency is breathtaking Clos de Vougeot, Grand Cru blend of three parcels, two at the top and bottom of Baudes Basses and the third in Montiotes Hautes, underneath Musigny. Cranberries on the nose, this seems atypically open and expressive at this stage! The palate has a fine nervous tension, initially led by acidity, but the tannins close in on the finish and remind the taster we re in the Clos. Very good Echézeaux, Grand Cru Lamarche s Echézeaux is a blend of Les Rouges du Bas, Les Cruots and Clos Saint Denis. Sadly, 50% was lost to frost. Perhaps the reduced yields have brought this Grand Cru into even greater focus, but there s such an expressiveness to the nose and the palate here! Red and blue berries, complex florals, sweet and savoury spices all compete and complement across the nose and the palate. The tannins are supple and lavishly textured, but the salinity on the finish wraps everything up like a glove Grands-Echézeaux, Grand Cru profound nose of violets and plums, darker and wilder than the Echézeaux. The palate is medium bodied, and doesn t need to be anything more, there is such wonderful purity here and expression of terroir. Superbly balanced, with cashmere tannins and already such a long finish. This has a long future La Grande Rue, Grand Cru La Grande Rue is the pride of the domaine, a 1.65 hectare monopole that runs parallel to Romanée-Conti. My scribbled note reads, Just when you thought it couldn t get any better. Perfumed and vibrantly fruited, the textural balance here is exceptional. Not a hair out of place, this is an ethereal Grand Cru that sits at Burgundy s very top table. Only 10% loss to frost in Btls tbc Btls tbc Btls tbc Btls tbc Btls tbc 2016 Vosne-Romanée, Les Hautes Maizières Les Hautes Maizières sits under Premier Cru Les Suchots and touches Romanée- Saint-Vivant at one corner and Clos Saint Denis at another. The soil here is deeper, with clay lying over the same limestone subsoil that reappears in Mazis-Chambertin. Bruno has 0.48 hectares of 65 year old vines. Herby, garrigue notes on the nose, and red and black cherries. The power of the clay is apparent here, you could almost be in Nuits-Saint-Georges! The tannins are assertive, but ripe, the finish fizzes with energy and this is a particularly vibrant and appealing lieu-dit Vosne- Romanée Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru, Les Beaux Monts Premier Cru Les Beaux Monts is east-facing, and benefits from early morning sunshine whilst avoiding much of the intensity of the afternoon heat. It is typically amongst the more refined, mineral Premier Crus from Vosne, and the 2016 typifies this trend. The nose is cool and airy, with forest floor fruits and a dash of white pepper and wood smoke. The palate has a surprising depth of fruit concentration, but the purity is there, with sleek and supple tannins. This is a very pretty, finessed Les Beaux Monts Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, La Combe d Orveau La Combe d Orveau sits above Clos Vougeot and next to Echézeaux and Les Petits Musigny. Clavelier owns the largest proportion of the Premier Cru, with 0.81 hectares. 3 barrels produced in The nose is pure and softly fruited, with floral notes of rose petals. The palate is alive with energy, there is so much vibrancy and tension here! There is a reserved power on the mid-palate, you can sense that much is being held back here, it should cellar beautifully Corton Grand Cru, Le Rognet Bruno s Corton is always an enjoyable way to finish a tasting, being a different beast entirely from the wines of the Côte de Nuits. The nose is intensely dark, mineral, and brooding, and the palate is similarly stacked with currant fruits, sous bois, and mineral extract. This is a very savoury, muscular Le Rognet, that will need time to come together, but it will be worth the wait Btls tbc Btls tbc Btls tbc Btls tbc Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 37

21 Côte de Nuits Côte de Nuits Domaine des Lambrays Thierry Brouin has now retired, after making the wine at the domaine for over 35 years. lthough, we did bump into him at lunch in the village, so he is clearly still local and available for consultation! Boris Champy has now taken the reins, having worked at several top estates in Bordeaux, Burgundy, and the Napa Valley. He has already begun a comprehensive analysis of the soil types of the Clos, and exciting times are ahead for this Grand Cru. *Domaine Drouhin-Laroze Philippe Drouhin s grandparents astutely invested in Grand Cru land whenever the best parcels became available, creating holdings that would be impossible to achieve in the modern era. s a result, Drouhin-Laroze has vineyard in some of the best sites in the Côte de Nuits and 40% of their holdings are Grand Cru. Caroline Drouhin describes 2016 as, terroir vintage, mineral and fresh. The domaine has suffered the effects of frost this year, with Clos Vougeot (40% loss) and Musigny (50% loss) the worst affected Morey-Saint-Denis The fruit comes from just above Clos des Lambrays and the wine is raised in one third new oak barrels. dark and spicy fruit character here, with plenty of black sour cherry fruit that is sweetened by riper notes of cassis. The palate is expressive, with sous bois and meat reduction notes adding complexity and interest. The finish is led by acidity, which is bright and well balanced Clos des Lambrays, Grand Cru The 2016 Clos des Lambrays is 85% whole bunches and was raised in 50% new oak and 50% one year old barrels. This represents are terrific debut for Boris, classic in the Burgundian rather than the Bordelais sense of the term. Spicy and perfumed, there is a thrilling tension here, and so much energy across the palate. Plenty of concentration, but no overt heaviness, this is firing on all cylinders Btls Btls Fixin, Laroze de Drouhin new wine for us this year, Laroze de Drouhin is the negociant project of the domaine, intended to complement their existing holdings with contracts for top locations where they don t own land. The family has effective control of the vineyards and picking dates, and ferment, age, and bottle the wine themselves. Fixin lies just north of Gevrey- Chambertin, and this example is a blend of two plots. Juicy blackberry and cherry fruit on the nose and the palate, with plenty of glossy, ripe Pinot character. It s built around a muscular frame, but is a refined effort, avoiding the rusticity that some others fall prey to. Well worth a look and likely to be excellent value Gevrey-Chambertin blend of seven parcels from across Gevrey this year, with 30% new oak barrels. Very stylish and open, with red and blue berry fruits, violet notes, and a light dusting of mocha. The palate is juicy and accessible, with supple tannins and a racy acidity urging you to take another sip. Very good Btls Btls Morey-Saint-Denis, En Très Girard Produced from a 0.18 hectare parcel of Morey-Saint-Denis located at the top part of the En Très Girard lieu-dit, planted in The nose is darkly fruited, damsons and cherries, and notes of wild flowers. Lots of dark spice on the palate, which is plushly textured and has a note of incense on the finish Btls Bonnes Mares, Grand Cru Drouhin-Laroze own a 1.5 hectare parcel of Bonnes Mares, which is solely on the Chambolle-Musigny side of the Grand Cru. 80% new oak and 40% whole bunches in The nose is at the darker end of the Pinot fruit spectrum, with sous bois and liquorice adding complexity. The palate is large-scaled and inviting, with plenty of glossy red and black fruits, chocolatey tannins and a minty note adding freshness. There are layers upon layers of depth here, this is a super Grand Cru that merits cellaring Btls Chambertin Clos de Bèze, Grand Cru Originally belonging to the monks of the Bèze abbey, vines have been planted here since as early as 630 D. Drouhin-Laroze own a 1.5 hectare parcel, planted in % new oak and 40% whole bunches in Minerals and iron on the nose, which is imperious and densely packed. The palate initially shows inviting raspberry and damson fruits, but the depth and scale of extract and tannins on the mid-palate lends a strictness to the wine and demands focus. The oak is already very well integrated, and the transparency of the site is particularly impressive. With a herbal, Chartreuse note on the finish, this may be the best Grand Cru we ve tasted to date from the domaine Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 39

22 Chablis

23 Chablis Domaine William Fèvre The Fèvre estate totals 51 hectares, and with 16 hectares of Premier Cru and 15 hectares of Grand Cru, they are the largest owner of Premier and Grand Cru vineyards. Tasting their range En Primeur is always a reference point for the region, these are wonderful expressions of their terroirs, classically-styled and precise. The only negative aspect is the yields, many of their vineyards were badly affected by frost. Chablis crosses a succulent grape with an austere soil to a shimmering effect, an effect nobody anywhere else has been able to reproduce Hugh Johnson 2016 Chablis Premier Cru, Les Lys We are pleased to again have exclusivity in the UK on Les Lys, despite a 75% reduction in volumes due to frost. It s a terrific Premier Cru that is technically part of Premier Cru Vaillons, but with a north east exposure rather than the south east of Vaillons. Fèvre opt to bottle their 0.9 hectares separately because of its unique character. cool nose, refined and strongly mineral, with notes of smoke and the sea. Le Lys is a cool site, and the palate is a beautiful expression of Chablis, with citrus fruits, oyster shells, and a bracing acidity Chablis Premier Cru, Montmains Fevre s Montmains comes from three parcels on the Left Bank: Butteaux, Les Fôrets, and Montmains. The nose is quite strict and linear, with a strongly saline, oyster shell quality from the Kimmeridgean soil. The palate is led by acidity, but there is a good concentration of citrus and orchard fruits. The finish is similarly racy, with a tinge of lemongrass on the finish Chablis Premier Cru, Montée de Tonnerre Montée de Tonnerre is located directly to the right of Grand Cru Les Clos, and Fèvre s 2.24 hectares are a mixture of three different parcels, each with a different aspect. The cool Kimmeridgian clay soil doesn t retain heat, which helps keep freshness, and the vines are old. very pure nose, with lemon and limes, saline notes, and a touch of white pepper. The palate is powerfully built, there is excellent concentration, but the acidity is also elevated, giving drive and focus through to the finish. Super Btls Btls Btls Chablis Grand Cru, Bougros Bourgros is Fèvre s largest Grand Cru holding, with 4.12 hectares at the western end of the Grand Cru area. Bourgros is typically the most approachable Grand Cru, and Fèvre use no new oak here, preferring used barrels. The nose is open and expressive, with pears and white floral notes. The palate is expansive and richly textured, but the acidity adds definition and energy. The finish dials back the flamboyance of the fruit, with a saline note and a touch of ginger at the last Btls Great Chablis has an extraordinary blend of power masked by a nervy minerality and is a truly unique style. Nowhere else manages to make Chardonnay of such austerity, yet also generosity and age worthiness. No serious cellar is complete without it Chablis Grand Cru Bougros Côte Bouguerots Côte Bouguerots is in the steepest, rockiest part of Bourgros, Fèvre have 2.11 hectares in two plots and they have produced this cuvée separately since More reserved on the nose than the Bougros, this is profoundly mineral and tightly wound. The palate shows commendable weight and texture, with stone fruits and a musky floral quality. The acidity is a step higher here, and the result is a wine of great finesse and racy energy. This is a Grand Cru of considerable quality, and will repay time in the cellar Chablis Grand Cru, Les Clos The most famous of all the Grand Crus, Fèvre have 4.11 hectares divided across 8 plots on the cooler upper slopes. The vines are old, with 50% planted in the 1940s. n introverted nose at this early stage, brooding and reserved. With time in the glass, notes of iodine and salt emerge, mingled with subtle citrus fruits. You can sense the power on the palate, but this is so tightly wound at this stage, it deserves time in the bottle to emerge and reveal its undeniable quality. Very fine Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 43

24 Chablis Chablis Domaine Billaud-Simon Billaud-Simon continues to make top-class Chablis in that classic, steely, mineral style. Purchased by Domaine Faiveley in 2014, they are currently undergoing extensive renovations that will transform the domaine Chablis, Tête d Or This cuvée is a blend of three parcels, located on the southern slopes at the foot of Montée de Tonnerre. Less expressive than the 2015, more in the style of their 2014 vintage. Very fresh on the nose, with white peach and fennel notes. 20% barrel fermentation here, and there is a pleasant density on the midpalate, refreshed by a saline note on the finish. Very classic Chablis Premier Cru, Mont de Milieu blend of 4 parcels of 35+ year old vines, which offer low yields of concentrated fruit. saline and expressive nose of grapefruit, and riper melon fruit. There is good energy on the palate, with grassy, herbal notes and more exotic lemongrass flavours. The acidity is brisk, and suits the stony minerality on the finish, which is long and assured Chablis Premier Cru, Montée de Tonnerre Billaud-Simon have two parcels at the top of Montée de Tonnerre, Côte de Bréchain and Pied d loup, and one at the bottom in Chapelot. They own 2.15 hectares in total. mineral, saline nose, very refined and relfecting the proximity to the Grand Crus. The palate is powerful, with pungent notes of the sea, and a chalky grip that is refreshed by citrusy acidity. There is a hint of riper, almost tropical fruit on the finish, this is a complex and engaging Montée de Tonnerre that has the Grand Crus in its sights Chablis Grand Cru, Les Preuses 0.41 hectare parcel, planted in 1952, which represents the oldest vineyard holdings of the domaine. pples and pears on the nose, with oyster shell scents and notes of subtle spices. The palate has excellent freshness and vibrancy, with lemon and lime citrus flavours, and good textural richness. The acidity provides the energy, the finish is long and tinged with salty minerals Chablis Grand Cru, Vaudésir The origins of the name Vaudésir are unclear, but one evocative theory suggests that the origin is land of all desires. Billaud-Simon have three parcels, totalling 0.49 hectares, and two of those are from the later ripening NW sector of the Grand Cru. Fresh, and intensely lemony aromas on the nose, overlaid with maritime and granitic notes. The palate shows fine balance, with precise citrus and orchard fruits, keen acidity, and tension and minerality to spare Btls Btls Btls Btls Btls Domaine Samuel Billaud Having made wine at Billaud-Simon for 20 vintages, Samuel Billaud set out to follow his own path following the sale of Billaud to Faively. He made his early vintages at a temporary facility outside Chablis, is now happily housed in a permanent facility in the heart of Chablis. Samuel s yields in 2016 were approximately 50% of his normal levels Chablis Premier Cru, Les Fourneaux Les Forneaux translates as oven and this small Right Bank Premier Cru is ideally situated on steep, south facing slopes, with vines planted in % tank fermented. The nose is pungent, with lemon peel and slate aromas, very precise. The palate shows fine balance, more citrus fruits and riper orchard and stone fruits that hint at the ripening potential of this site. The finish is long, and shows a hot minerality of spices and earth Chablis Premier Cru, Séchet Vieilles Vignes 0.60 hectare parcel of 70 year old vines, that used to belong to Samuel s Great- Grandmother. 100% tank fermented. Samuel describes Séchet as the Montée de Tonnerre of the Left Bank, which is considerable praise! Fresh limes, and grapefruit on the nose, flecked with saline notes. The palate is linear at this stage, impressively focused and led by acidity and minerality. This is a steely Premier Cru, definitely one for the Chablis classicists! 2016 Chablis Grand Cru, Bougros Bougros is at the North West extremity of the Grand Crus, has the steepest slopes, and has a remarkable South facing exposition. The nose is thrillingly open and expresive, with riper stone and tropical fruits, that are brought into clarity by a subtle reductive smoky note. The palate is broad and expansive, but the level of acidity keeps things in check and alows the nutty, flinty characters to emerge on the finish. This is a wonderful Grand Cru, that reflects its terroir impreccably Btls Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 45

25 Chablis Chablis Domaine des Malandes Lynn Marchive is retiring this year, and her children Richard and mandine are now responsible for this fine domaine. Winemaker Guénolé Bretaudeau will continue to work alongside them. They produce classy Chablis at very reasonable prices from their 29 hectare estate. The 2016s are wonderful, no new barrels were purchased in 2016 due to the reduced yields due to frost, and serendipitously this has perhaps led to wines of greater subtlety than ever before. Domaine Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin Benoît Droin is the 14th generation producing wine in Chablis, and he combines that heritage with a curiosity and dynamism to great effect. Benoît prefers to pick and bottle early to preserve freshness, he likens Chablis to Champagne in the sense that for both regions it is important to limit maturity. He is steadfast in his vision to create Chablis rather than Chardonnay, these 2016s are a great example of that philosophy Chablis Premier Cru, Vau de Vey 3.5 hectare parcel located in a narrow, steep valley, on clay and limestone soils. The vines typically see less sun due to the aspect and ripen later. 70% steel and 30% barrels. very pure and classic Chablis nose of citrus fruits and green apples. Some riper stone fruits emerge on the palate, pears and peaches, and there is a refreshing maritime spray on the finish Btls Chablis Premier Cru, Montée de Tonnerre From the Côte de Bréchain section at the top of Montée de Tonnerre, the nose is assertively mineral due to the blue clay soils of the vineyard. The palate is similarly reserved, much more about silex and flint and overt fruit character at this stage, but there is a subtle citrus character that is enveloped in a pleasing smoky reduction. This is a super Premier Cru Btls Chablis Premier Cru, Montmains, Vieilles Vignes This old vine cuvée comes from 1.18 hectares of vines that are 65 years old. 70% steel and 30% barrels. Very low yields in 2016 due to frost. The nose is mineral and precise, but on the palate you can feel the intensity of those low-yielding old vines, with pungent spiced apple fruits and refreshing grapefruit acidity. The finish is carried along with notes of flint, blossom, and salt Btls Chablis Grand Cru, Blanchots 1.04 hectare parcel, 100% tank fermentation in Given the well documented travails of 2016, Blanchots represents a happier note, it was entirely lost to hail in 2015 but has returned this year. delicately floral but steely nose, with citrus and orchard fruits and oyster shells. The palate more expressive, with riper citrus fruits and a chalky, saline note at the last Btls Chablis Grand Cru, Vaudésir Vaudésir is a Grand Cru with two distinct personalities, the vineyard is an ampitheatre with two opposite facing slopes that meet in the middle. Malandes Vaudésir comes from a 0.90 hectare parcel planted in 1967 and 1987 on the cooler facing slope. 100% barrel fermented. Yellow stone fruits and lime cordial on the nose, the palate deftly balances riper fruits with cooling notes of fennel and citrus. This is a much more classic effort than their 2015, it s lunar rather than solar, and very complete Chablis Grand Cru, Les Clos From a 0.53 parcel planted in 1962, 100% barrel fermented. The nose is classically Les Clos, regal and somewhat aloof at this early stage. With time in the glass subtle notes of oyster shell and white flowers are coaxed forth. The palate is superbly elegant, with pretty floral notes, but don t be mistaken, there is a pungent mineral seam bristling under the surface. This is a terrific Les Clos, which will require time to fulfil its considerable potential Btls Btls Chablis Grand Cru, Valmur 1.04 hectare parcel, with partial oak vinification. The nose is riper than Blanchots, an aromatically open, with nectarine and melon fruits and citrus zest notes. You can feel the power of the Grand Cru on the palate, which is large scaled, with formidable levels of acidity, extract and honeyed fruit Chablis Grand Cru, Les Clos Droin have 1.40 hectare of Les Clos, divided into three parcels from the top, middle and bottom. Les Clos wasn t so badly affected here in 2016, with only 10% crop loss. s anticipated, it s the most steely and closed of the Grand Crus, with tightly wound citrus and mineral characters. The palate is texturally very fine, with piercing acidity and a smoky, spicy note of ginger on the finish. Notes Btls Btls Burgundy En Primeur 2016 Burgundy En Primeur 47

26 Visit our stores Belgravia, Elizabeth Street Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PB m a n ag e r Granville Murray +44 (0) Hampstead 29 Heath Street, NW3 6TR heath.st@jeroboams.co.uk m a n ag e r Loick Tyson +44 (0) Belgravia, Pont Street 6 Pont Street, SW1X 9EL pont.st@jeroboams.co.uk m a n ag e r Xavier Hornblow +44 (0) Holland Park 96 Holland Park venue, W11 3RB holland.park@jeroboams.co.uk m a n ag e r Kathy Hodgkinson +44 (0) Knightsbridge 56 Walton Street, SW3 1RB walton.st@jeroboams.co.uk m a n ag e r Jack Main +44 (0) Notting Hill 13 Elgin Crescent, W11 2J notting.hill@jeroboams.co.uk m a n ag e r Cameron Jardine +44 (0) Talk to the sales team Matt Tipping matthew.tipping@jeroboams.co.uk +44 (0) David Standfield david.standfield@jeroboams.co.uk +44 (0) James Wormall james.wormall@jeroboams.co.uk +44 (0) James Radcliffe james.radcliffe@jeroboams.co.uk +44 (0) Tony Leonard tony.leonard@jeroboams.co.uk +44 (0)

27 Orders and expert advice