November 14, 2007
Well, nothing like easing into it slowly here. I had as full of a day as possible right out of the chute – tasting through the range at 5 domaines today, lunch at the new Table d’Olivier Leflaive in Puligny-Montrachet, and dinner at the estate in Morey-St. Denis with the entire Taupenot-Merme family. 67 Wines tasted in total, including a gorgeous ’93 Charmes-Chambertin and a stunning ’85 Combe d’Orveau from the Taupenot’s cellar. We are off to a nice start indeed!
The best news is that, from the first round of tastings yesterday, I am happy to report that I am very happy with the 2006s at this point. They are succulent, fruity, very friendly and forward at this stage in barrel. My first take is that, from the good producers – who worked dilligently in the vines and sorted rigorously – there will be a lot of crowd pleasing wines. It will not be across-the-board great like 2005, you will need to choose more carefully. I of course am happy to be your guide.Perhaps the major fault of the 2006s is that they are coming right after the 2005s. It’s tough to follow a once in a lifetime vintage, but nonetheless, we will have a lot of excellent juice for you next year. I started off down in the picturesque village of Mercurey this morning, visiting an exciting young producer who will likely become the next addition to the portfolio. I look forward to bringing in some really nice Mercurey red and white – excellent prices and killer quality at this estate – details soon…
Without boring you with all the details, suffice it to say that the entire range was a knockout at Philippe Chavy again this year. Ditto for Jean-Marc Millot – where the only problem is the minscule quantities available from 2006. He’s got only 2 barrels of the stunning Grands Echezeaux, 4 of his Clos Vougeot, 4 of the Suchots – unfortunately I think the word “allocation” is on our future. I loved the 06s at Anne & Hervé Sigaut in Chambolle (and I covet their house, might I add), and at Taupenot-Merme the entire range is impressive again. I am exhausted but very happy, and am looking forward to round two tomorrow – only 4 estates, just a light day…
