1996 Chapelle Chambertin
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Tasting notes
A cool, pure and beautifully complex nose features relatively high-toned and still notably youthful aromas of various red berries, spice, earth and a hint of underbrush. There is excellent depth to the utterly delicious and mineral-inflected medium weight flavors that possess terrific focus and detail on the well-balanced if ever-so-slightly austere finale. While this could easily be enjoyed now I would be inclined to give it another few years of cellar time first. Lovely stuff and I especially admire the balance.
Critic scores
Average Score
Allen Meadows, Burghound
Pierre Rovani
More reviews and scores
Ponsot's 1996 Chapelle-Chambertin, tasted three times since its bottling, is ruby-colored and offers cinnamon-infused aromas of spices and sweet red fruits. This Chapelle has vibrance, a medium body, as well as excellent balance and focus. Its flavors are dominated by red currants, tangy cherries, and berries. However, it does not approach the 89-91 rating I originally gave it in Issue #118. Anticipated maturity: now-2002. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel (205) 980-8802.
About the producer
Domaine Ponsot is one of the most well-known estates in the Côte de Nuits, famed for owning three of the original four hectares of the Clos de la Roche Grand Cru. The legendary domaine also produces another nine Grand Cru cuvées.