Frederic Magnien Montrachet

11 Montrachet Grand Crus and 4 Montrachet GC Neighbors (E&R Wine Shop, Portland OR) : Very expansive aromas, but nothing particularly protruding... it is lovely, though. Beautiful palate flavors on a texture that's a little chunky. The flavors are amazingly red fruited, and they are intense. Notes that are very pure, penetrating and odd (though in a good way, with the red fruit). Love the palate impression. Initially this is quiet on the finish but then there's this lovely opening …

Opened, poured, and drank over 4 hours. The oak is still quite prevalent and almost off-putting, but there is a hint of pineapple and other tropical fruits. I think this wine should be revisited in 3-5 years to see if the oak integrates and could merit a higher score. Rating 90 with a big ?.

A very modern style, rich and oaky. This is the Montrachet for people with a California palate. Not my thing, but well done for the style.

G7 (Dave) : Pale yellow color. Smells of pears with a pretty floral character. Tasting of melon, pear, grass and spices. Amazing balance and beautiful acidity. Excellent purity of fruit. Very young. Restrained on the finish at this point in time. Should open up nicely with some bottle age and merit a higher score. 13.5% alcohol.

even allowing for it's youth, this wine is only decent because of the oak (surprise!). no montrachet distinctiveness, this could be any well made chard for a lot less money.