All of the major critics have now weighed in on the 2010 vintage in Burgundy, and they are unanimous in their assessment. As I found in my tastings of over 400 2010s last November, this is a classically great vintage. The newest report is from Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate, where Burgundy coverage is now provided by Antonio Galloni –
“I am thrilled with the 2010 vintage. The wines are racy, show fabulous minerality and are true to site. In other words, the vintage embodies all of the qualities that make red Burgundy one of the world’s most compelling wines.”
Galloni goes on to say “The 2010s have huge fruit, but also good acidity and finessed tannins. Many growers like to say 2010 has the fruit of 2009 and the structure of 2008.” I would concur, and add that there is a pristine and decidedly crystalline quality to the fruit in 2010 that I find incredibly attractive, and downright stunning in the best examples.
The downside is that yields were down 30-50% on average, so the supply is severely limited. More from Galloni – “Given the miniscule production of the 2010s, this is one vintage where readers will want to snap up the wines as soon as they become available. My suggestion is to move quickly, which is exactly what I plan to do.”
As to pricing, the diminished quantity has seen most producers raise prices slightly above the 2009 levels, but nowhere near enough to offset their 30-50% crop loss. The good news is that the dollar is stronger than at most points last year. So while prices will be up, the rise will be mitigated by a better exchange rate this time around.
Most of the 2010s have not yet been bottled, and will not reach our shores until later this year, with the majority arriving this fall. Keep your eyes on this space and your email for pre-arrival offerings and release announcements. Like the man says, this year you truly do need to move quickly.
Two of the early-release 2010s have just arrived, and they are flat-out two of the best values of the year. The 2010 Mercurey Vieilles Vignes from Domaine Ninot is quite possibly the best red Burg under $30 on the planet (it’s $28), with bright red berry fruit and excellent concentration and depth for this level – you should definitely snap this one up by the case asap. The same goes for the 2010 Fleurie from Domaine des Nugues, Cru Beaujolais at its very finest, brimming with yummy fruit and a captivating nose, all for just $22. Like everything in 2010, supplies are limited, so don’t snooze. Email Kelly Karr to grab yours now…
