2018 Clos des Lambrays
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru does not quite have the amplitude of Magnien's Clos Saint-Denis, but it displays more vivacious red fruit, clarifying with aeration and eventually develops quite an ethereal quality. The palate is beautifully balanced with sappy red fruit laced with white pepper, sage and graphite notes. Superb structure on the finish - quintessentially Morey-Saint-Denis with wonderful sappiness. Bon vin! Tasted blind at the Burgfest 2018 red tasting.
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The Wine Advocate
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
A slightly riper mix reflects notes of black cherry, cassis plum and plenty of spice and floral nuances, especially violet. On the palate there is good freshness and vivacity as the succulent and rounded middle weight plus flavors also possess a beguiling texture before culminating in a powerful, sappy, firm and somewhat raspy finish. Compared to the 2019 version, the tannins are not as fine nor is the balance quite as well dialed in but even so, there is still plenty of admire. I would point out that this wine was vinified by the prior régisseur Boris Champy while it was bottled by Jacques Devauges.
After its fine showing from barrel, the 2018 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru hasn't quite realized all its promise. Offering up aromas of ripe cherries, berries, spices and orange rind, it's more obviously marked by cedary new oak than I perceived a year ago, and rustic aromas of smoked meats and fresh leather now mingle with its inviting fruit tones. Full-bodied, rich and layered, it concludes with a youthfully chewy, oak lactone-inflected finish.
About the producer
Domaine des Lambrays is one of Morey-Saint-Denis’s most famous estates, its history closely tied to the Grand Cru from which it takes its name – Clos des Lambrays.