1934 Clos des Lambrays

A pristine bottle of the 1934 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru, the favorite red Burgundy of one of my great mentors, had hitherto eluded me, so it was great to finally track one down and experience this wine at its best. It's one of the purest and most perfumed vintages of Clos des Lambrays from this era, mingling fruit tones of raspberry and mulberry with captivating floral accents of heritage rose and violet, along with notions of blood orange, spice and sweet cigar wrapper. The palate is just as compelling, with terrific depth and precision, its deep core of fruit balanced by melted tannins and integrated acids. It's more elegant than the great 1937 but just as intense, and well-cellared bottles should have no trouble seeing out their 100th birthday in style.