2016 Nuits St Georges les Cras
By Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair
2016 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru by Domaine Fourrier, Burgundy, France
The allure of Burgundy is often encapsulated in the harmonious dialogue between terroir and vintage, with the 2016 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Fourrier speaking volumes of this enigmatic region's narrative. The 2016 vintage, hailed for its resilience and purity, has yielded some of Burgundy's most distinctive and engaging Pinot Noir expressions amidst challenging climatic conditions.
Eloquence of the Earth: A Vintage Narrative
Defying early season adversities, the providential turn to a benevolent summer allowed for the slow coaxing of flavour density and structural poise that has come to distinguish the grapes from this coveted parcel of land in 2016. It is thus with genuine anticipation that one approaches the 2016 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Fourrier, which conveys an articulate interpretation of this dramatic vintage.
An Ode to Elegance: Energy and Nuance
The inimitable foothold that Fourrier's winemaking prowess exerts on its Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru is palpable in the 2016 offering. There is a vibrancy to the red and dark fruited aromatics laced with an earthy minerality typical of this lauded plot, elevated by a finessed use of oak that whispers rather than shouts, framing the fruit exquisitely. On the palate, finely grained tannins are in perfect concert with the bright acidity, suggesting a capacity for graceful ageing worthy of investment. Cranberry, cherries, and a hint of forest floor combine in a symphonic display of sensory eloquence.
With wine investors often seeking articulate manifestations of both place and time, the 2016 Griottes Chambertin Grand Cru by Domaine Fourrier crystallises these elements. It exhibits an unerring balance between tautness and generosity – a captivating paradox epitomising the fortitude and finesse found in this year's harvests. As such, it stands as a compelling candidate for any discerning portfolio, promising delights now with promises of further depth as years weave complexity into its tapestry.
Market price (USD)
$17,690.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
1035
Scores and tasting notes
Having just finished its malolactic a couple of months prior to my visit, the 2016 Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru Aux Cras fought through a slight reduction to suggest a bouquet packed with red and black fruit, crushed violets and rose petals. With aeration, more blue fruit emerges. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, rounded tannin, perfect acidity, extremely well focused with a sensual and sophisticated finish that lingers in the mouth. This is a superb Aux Cras that is going to give a lot of pleasure.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 December 2017