1997 Meursault Les Narvaux

Domaine d’Auvenay’s 1997 Meursault Narvaux has a precise bouquet with impressive mineralité : flint like scents complemented by hazelnut, and just a suggestion of brioche with aeration. The palate is well balanced and certainly displaying much more ripeness than I expected, almost rounded in texture yet this is counterpoised by that acidity. It becomes more taut towards the finish, long and sustained in the mouth with a detailed, precise and deliciously saline aftertaste. Superb. Tasted at the La Paulée in Beaune.

The Meursault Narvaux displays an oak-imbued and rich white fruit-laden nose. This massive, thick, chewy, and medium-to-full-bodied offering is crammed with expansive metal, mineral, and hazelnut flavors. When I asked Mme. Bize how she had been able to obtain this level of unbelievable ripeness and superb balance she said "there are no secrets, yields and respecting the vine as well as nature." This beauty should be at its peak between 2001 and 2008. Importers: Martine's Wines, Inc., San Rafael, CA; tel (415) 485-1800.