2010 Griotte Chambertin

The 2010 Griotte-Chambertin bursts onto the palate with - surprise - loads of Griotte cherries. Crushed flowers and spices develop in the glass, adding a measure of complexity. As good as this is, I don't find the level of depth or complexity that is typical of the 2010 Grand Crus here. Today my impression is that this feminine, gracious Burgundy is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028. It is always fascinating to settle in for a tasting with proprietor Mounir Saouma. With the exception of Jadot, I can't think of a single maison that draws across such a broad range of top vineyards. When taken together, the whites and reds provide insight to the performance of dozens of the finest sites in the region. Saouma is not much for comparisons when discussing 2010, saying quite simply, -2010 is 2010.- The vintage was not without some disappointments. Because of the miniscule yields, there is no 2010 Romanee St. Vivant or Richebourg. As always, these are some of the most unmanipulated wines being made in Burgundy. When I tasted the 2010s in November 2011, the wines had never been sulphured or racked. Saouma had just finished bottling his 2009s (a vintage many bottled on the early side) in October 2011! Importers: Vintus LLC, Pleasantville, NY; tel. (914) 769-3000, Atherton Imports, Menlo Park, CA; tel. (650) 328-6639

The 2010 Griotte-Chambertin bursts onto the palate with - surprise - loads of Griotte cherries. Crushed flowers and spices develop in the glass, adding a measure of complexity. As good as this is, I don't find the level of depth or complexity that is typical of the 2010 Grand Crus here. Today my impression is that this feminine, gracious Burgundy is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028. Feb 2012, www.robertparker.com