Ponsot   Griotte Chambertin Grand Cru

1995 Griotte Chambertin Grand Cru

By Ponsot

1995 Griotte Chambertin Grand Cru from Ponsot, Burgundy, France

The enigmatic 1995 vintage in Burgundy has long been a conversation starter amongst connoisseurs and aficionados alike. Amidst this landscape of varied interpretations, the 1995 Griotte Chambertin Grand Cru from Ponsot emerges as a remarkably distinctive expression, meriting a closer examination by collectors and investors with an eye for exemplary vintages.

 

Plumage of Prowess: A Vintage's Voyage

The 1995 growing season in Burgundy was a narrative of contrasts, culminating in a harvest that rewarded the diligent and discerning vigneron. The Griotte Chambertin from Ponsot in particular embodies this anecdote, as the estate's unwavering commitment to terroir-centric viticulture is encapsulated within each bottle. It was a vintage that whispered secretive complexities into the ears of those patient enough to listen, where the tannins, now in sublime repose, once thrummed with youth's vigour.

 

Refined Complexity: Investment Potential Encased

In the realm of fine wine investment, provenance plays as pivotal a role as the wine's intrinsic quality - fortunately, both are unequivocally assured with Ponsot's Griotte Chambertin. This Grand Cru seduces with a patina that gracefully veils its potent core. Notes of black cherries entwined with hints of earth, mushroom, and an ethereal touch of rose petals echo the essence of its storied terroir.

The angular precision that once defined its youth has given way to an elegant silhouette, much like an august theatre’s faded grandeur that retains its majestic presence. A wealth of secondary nuances now come to the fore: A resplendent tapestry displaying forest floor complexities intertwines with vestiges of rich fruit and a lingering finish reminiscent of sweet spices. The overall palate experience is one of profound depth and remarkable persistence, belying the initially unassuming entrance.

As a hallmark wine from an esteemed manufactory such as Ponsot, and shining brightly within one's portfolio, the 1995 Griotte Chambertin Grand Cru personifies not only historic viticulture but also stands testament to the prudent potential inherent in strategically selected vintages for maturation and eventual realisation on the fine wine market landscape.

In summation, this Griotte Chambertin demands discerning consideration across both sensory and fiduciary dimensions; it whispers an eloquent tale of a year caught betwixt shadows and sunlight. For those attuned to the quiet nocturne of Burgundy's past mastery—as well as today’s astute investor—the 1995 vintage from Ponsot offers not just a glass darkly gazed but a clear vision towards vinous enlightenment.

Market price (GBP)

£4,480.00

12x75cl

Highest score

87

POP score

640

Scores and tasting notes

87

In The Wine Advocate's Issue #111, I rated the 1995 Griotte-Chambertin a 91-94 and described it as "dark-ruby colored ... with aromas of deep, dark berries and touches of underbrush, this is a powerful, large-scaled wine that offers layer upon layer of thick, chewy and grilled fruits ... tannic, full-bodied and backward, it requires 6-7 years of cellaring and should age well for another 12-15 years." At my recent encounter with this Griotte out of bottle it had a brick/ruby color and revealed the amber edge of an older wine. Exhibiting the aromas of an already well-evolved Pinot (roses, raspberries, and earth), this wine possesses an elegant, light-to-medium-bodied core of tea leaves, cherries, and strawberries. It appears already to be drying out, however it offers a long and fruit-flavored finish. Readers who own this wine should consider drinking it up. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel (205) 980-8802.

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 29 October 1999

Vintage performance