Georges et Henri Jayer Echezeaux

Double review of Henri Jayer 1998 Vosne-Roman�e 1er Cru Cros Parantoux and Henri et Georges Jayer 1998 Ech�zeaux, drunk side-by-side at dinner. At first served a little too warm, improved when cooled a bit. Great similarity, the Ech�zeaux was richer in texture and spicier, the Cros Parantoux more linear, more lively and penetrating. Jayet silkiness in both. Both wines still seem a good distance from their peak and may well show better in the future. Both wines cellared since original …

Rather boring on the nose. New oak is well integrated with decent dimension for this vintage. Hard not to be disappointed in the absence of Jayer magic. Cellar condition, perhaps.

Similar to previous bottle, but this one wasn't decanted prior to serving. Floral perfume, silky texture, dark fruits, sensuality, perfect harmony. Served blind to three very knowledgeable people who truly appreciated it -- initial guesses were Musigny. Cellared since original release.

Dinner at Ming San's (Ming San's) : A really nice wine, but this was bested by both the 1998 Dujac Echezeaux as well as the '98 Rene Engel GE on the same flight. Still though, no one ever complains when a good bottle of Jayer is poured. The nose was very much in keeping with the house style, with pure, sweet, almost gummy aromas of red berries and cherries just starting to shade into blue-fruited tones. Very alluring. The palate, …

Cellared since original release. Magnificent. Sixth bottle consumed over the years and easily the best with wonderful rose and red fruits, silky texture, all perfectly integrated. This was decanted about 1-1/2 hours before serving.

Dark fruited and spice on nose. Some oak to be resolved. Rich and earthy palate. May lack a bit in the middle and finish.

Acker Pre-Auction tasting (New York, NY) : Tasting, brief note. More black vs red fruit, excellent spice, still a bit pronounced oak. Very good, but not great. Moderate concentration, good length and elegance.