Francois Lamarche, Grands Echezeaux Vintage:2012

Francois Lamarche, Grands Echezeaux Vintage:2012A discreet dollop of new wood does not really get in the way of the ripe and spicy aromas of red berry fruit and violet hints that marry into supple, round and admirably pure tautly muscled flavors that possess reasonably good flesh but the finish exhibits a mildly dry tanginess that may round out but makes me cautious nevertheless. 91? 2018+

Two great Champagnes to start

Long-time winemaker Guido Rivella keeps a much lower profile

textured and quite generous

five-spice powder and lavender pastille flavors given lift and spine by a core of juicy acidity

50 cases imported

two on the Chassagne side and the third in the Puligny sector that is near the border dividing the two communes)

crushed rocks

most in prime spots and granite soils

(35% whole clusters)

a welcome sprinkling of cracked black pepper and an off-dry finish that feels long and persistent

fresh and even cool yet ripe liqueur-like red and black currant aromas that are liberally sprinkled with sauvage

Like the other Malbecs from Adrianna Vineyard