1990 Trapet - Chambertin Vieilles Vignes
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Tasting notes
Good full red. Roasted, liqueur-like nose offers almost pruney ripeness along with a note of menthol and the dried-fruit suggestions of a hot, sunny vintage. Large-scaled and powerful, with its dense, thick roasted fruit, menthol and mocha flavors given shape by adequate acidity. Finishes with strong, slightly drying tannins and a suggestion of orange zest. More impressive than classy or classic, this wine lacks the definition of most of the subsequent vintages at my tasting. Trapet noted that the growing season featured an early bud break and flowering, with substantial millerandage , followed by a very early veraison around July 25, but the drought slowed maturity and the harvest did not take place until September 23. This was the first year the estate carried out a green harvest, he added. (12.75% alcohol)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Jean Trapet's son, Jean-Louis, is now making the wines at this domaine. He has implemented some fundamental changes, such as (1) extending the maceration by 3-4 days, (2) pruning for lower yields, and (3) considering the possibility of organically farming his vineyards. The wines are still filtered, but Jean-Louis claims the filtration is less severe than in the past. When I tasted these wines in November, 1991, prior to bottling, I thought they were average to above average in quality. After bottling, I am less certain. The Chambertin-Vieilles Vignes is nearly outstanding. A smoky, roasted nose of ripe fruit and oak offers moderate intensity. In the mouth, the wine displays medium body, good concentration, low acidity, and firm tannins in the elegant finish. Drink it between 1994-2002 . Importer: Vineyard Brands, Chester, VT.