1985 Gevrey Chambertin Clos St Jacques

The 1985 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos Saint Jacques from Domaine Fourrier was made by Jean-Marie's father, Jean-Claude. To be honest, the wines of this era have a fraction of the reputation deservedly afforded to Jean-Marie, however, this was a respectable showing. It had a rustic bouquet for sure, but with adequate fruit considering its age, with a strong undergrowth element. The palate is fresh on the entry, nicely balanced with quite firm tannins that you would expect to be more supple considering the growing season. There is a ferrous element here that comes through on the finish that shows just a little dryness. Drink now if you are fortunate to possess any bottles.

This 1985 is too alcoholic and only average in color, and should have been bottled months before it actually was. The wine is tasty, ripe, and supple, but it is dangerously low in acidity, has a soupy texture, and lacks definition. It has to be drunk young in order to be enjoyed.