Domaine Bruno Clair Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Petite Chapelle

Burgundy 1er & Grand Cru 2005 : Lacking freshness, with signs of early oxidation. Aromas of sweet cherry, cola, and woody Earl Grey tea dominate, but the structure and vibrancy are missing. Not quite as balanced or detailed as others in the lineup—fading prematurely.

A very ripe yet cool, elegant nose of black cherry, peat and licorice come through and lead to very dense, rich rich flavors with ripe tannins and begin to show bonfire-like complexities and hints of game. Very primary today but as powerful as the fruit is, there is plenty of tension as the acidity and tannin work together well. Primary but impressive even today.

Barrel sample tasted at the domaine. 125 cases produced. Red-black fruit. Spice. Structured. Nice purity / freshness.

France Trip Part 3 - Burgundy; 6/20/2006-6/23/2006 : Barrel sample tasted at the domaine. 5 barrels produced. Powerful, meaty, and tannic. Very structured. Promising.