1999 Chambertin

Tasted at the Denis Mortet Chambertin vertical, the 1999 Chambertin Grand Cru has an intense bouquet so typical of the vintage. I find the fruit profile attractive: very pure with redcurrants, blueberry and violets, just a hint of soy in the background. The palate is full-bodied, packs quite a punch, but it is adorned with a silky texture, fine definition and there is a gentle crescendo towards sappy black fruit on the youthful finish. Yes, there is a feistiness to this Chambertin, a sense of ambition and yet after 16 years, it reveals succinct balance and a sense of grace that is perhaps missing in some other vintages. It will continue to give a decade's worth of pleasure. Tasted January 2016.