1999 Clos Vougeot

The 1999 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru is a good but not great Engel wine since it displays all the tropes of the vintage rather than the vineyard. There is no hanging about on the nose with upfront, almost garish ripe (over-ripe?) strawberries and red cherries, a little smudged, more opulent vis Engel's other wines from the period. The palate is balanced and voluminous with layers of succulent, ripe fruit--kirsch and wild strawberry, hints of blue fruit towards the finish. There is impressive weight, but there is a sense of heaviness here that detracts from the finesse and composure. Enjoyable but not intellectual. Tasted January 2017.

Pale garnet. A really interesting wine that initially seemed a little diffuse and effete but as it was aerated it gained focus and concentration. Initially the nose was a bit old with lots of veginess and dustiness. Malty and then really quite concentrated, sweet and focused. It took on new vigour with the second pour and became more like the less gracious, structured Beaux Monts 1999 from Méo-Camuzet served alongside. (JR)

Full ruby-red. Penetrating aromas of blackcurrant, black cherry, dark chocolate, minerals and red licorice, plus a whiff of old barrel. Juicy and penetrating but quite tightly wrapped. A wine of finesse rather than weight, but with subtle power as well. Finishes with chewy, chocolatey tannins and very good length. This will get dry if it not bottled soon.