2009 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays- France, Burgundy, Côte de Nuits, Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru (12/24/2011)
First-ever taste of a grand cru red burgundy upon release. Popped and poured. Brilliant dark ruby color. Nose of fresh-cut flowers, black raspberry, cinnamon, earth, pine forest. Raspberry and bing cherry infusion on the palate with nearly instant hedonistic pleasure accompanied by utter weightlessness and cut. Energized by racy acidity with tannins buried by primary fruit. Minerals and iron present in small amounts. Long, silky finish marked by lush cranberry notes and modest amount of grip. Hard to describe, definitely more than the sum of its parts. Beautiful. (93 pts.)
Combination of spur of the moment decision and frank curiosity getting the best of me. Fortunately it worked out OK (perhaps way better than OK). I was surprised and delighted that this showed so well. The rest of the stash will rest for a long, long time.
was anticipating on reading notes reflecting the 100% whole cluster ferment. only note that hints at this is the pine forest note. quite amazing how accessible this was for you. perhaps the roundness and lushness of 09 overriding winemaking style/site. i find these wines often undrinkable until 10+ years old.
I hear you. Having sampled the 02 recently and finding it too young, I was not prepared for this. I also wonder whether this is a vintage thing. On the other hand, I believe most vintages have an open period just after release (having never done this previously).
Great note, Doug. I have a six pack buried in the back of my locker. I should dig one out and get a baseline like you did. Sounds tasty. How was the oak? Oak was very heavy on the 08 I opened a couple months back.
Thierry Brouin does feel the stems help the wine to age more gracefully - perhaps that’s another way of saying they need time to come together. John Gilman is very excited about the 2010 Lambrays - I think his reviews will be out on View from the Cellar in a few days time.