2013 Chambertin, Cuvée Vieilles Vignes, Grand Cru, Domaine Ponsot, Burgundy

Very deep crimson. Very deep flavoured and majestic and actually showing a bit more fruit than many a Chambertin. Rich and flattering with so much ripe fruit that it stands out from most of Ponsot’s more austere wines. Pretty impressive – although almost strangely precocious for a Chambertin.

Drink 2027 - 2047

The expanded title of the 2013 Chambertin Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru suggests that the vines have come of age. Conversely, it has an understated bouquet that comes across as a little broody out of barrel, yet delineated and very focused, furnished with wilted flower petals in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with supple and lithe tannins, reserved at first but fanning out with conviction on the finish. Copious black brambly fruit here mixed with minerals and subtle tertiary notes. This should turn out to be an intriguing Grand Cru.

Drink 2017 - 2035

From a tiny .143 ha parcel of vines planted in 1961.

A pungently earthy nose exhibits notes of cool and highly restrained dark berries, sauvage, underbrush and plenty of spice elements. There is a positively gorgeous texture to the intensely stony, broad-shouldered flavours that exude a palpable sense of power and punch before culminating in a driving, mouth-coating, austere and massively long finish. This big but perfectly well-balanced classic Chambertin wine will need years of cellaring before it’s completely ready for prime time.

Drink 2030