2014 Savigny Les Beaune Les Lavieres

(Pavelot bought these 40+-year-old vines in 2011; 30% new oak; vinified with 20% whole clusters): Dark ruby-red. Musky dark berries, licorice and bitter chocolate on the nose. Suave and sweet, hinting at a chocolatey ripeness, but lovely balancing acidity and a slightly peppery stem component ensure freshness. Dense but not overly thick or powerful, finishing with very good lift and length.

The 2014 Savigny-lès-Beaune 1Er Cru Lavières, which includes around 15% whole bunch fruit, has an expressive nose that comes racing out of the blocks with ebullient red cherry and wild strawberry scents, just a touch of violet in the background. The palate is silky on the entry with what feels like more density than the other premier crus, fanning out with confidence on the structured finish that feels fleshy and caressing. Excellent.