Alex Gambal, Grand Cru Clos Vougeot (Burgundy, France) 2009

($175, Schneiders of Capital Hill): The 2009 vintage produced excellent red Burgundies. This is one of them. Though quite ripe, reflective of the warmth of the vintage, it has not lost its focus or identity. This Clos Vougeot captures the minerality and floral aspect of that Grand Cru vineyard and has plenty of structure beneath the ripeness and to assure a long life. Its beautiful balance suggests it will evolve gracefully over a decade or two, so I suggest cellaring it. But it’s pretty charming now. 93 Michael Apstein Dec 4, 2012