Great acidity and raciness. More exciting and precise than many a Chassagne premier cru. Lots to chew on. Very correct and deep-flavoured. Real fan of flavours on the finish. (JR)
Deep crimson. Rocky, dark fruit. Dry textured and just a little meaty on the palate. Savoury finish and plenty of freshness. Just not sure about that meaty note for long life though the tannins and acidity are there for longevity. Hence scored down a little. (JH)
Deep greyish crimson. Sweet, ripe, dark-red fruit and some oak-sweet spice. Again that slight meaty note (brett?) – though it is slight and some might describe it as complexity. Worries me for the longer term though you could overlook it now. (JH)
Drink
2019
–
2025
£180 per case of 12 ib Clarion Wines
DOMAINE BLAIN-GAGNARD These 2015s seemed a little heavy-footed and old-fashioned to me.
Quite pale ruby. This doesn’t smell quite brimming with cleanliness and health to me. And it’s rather thin. Polished tannins and a little sweetness but not quite fresh enough. Stringy finish. (JR)
Combines vivid green fruit with creamy texture and a touch of banana. Very savoury saline finish, and superb fruit definition. Long, dry finish that leaves an austere impression – lots of ageability. (RH)
Subtle nose, impeccably fresh but lacking the nutty complexity normally associated with the appellation. Having said that, there is an incredibly dense palate and long, concentrated fruit which should age for a long time. Judging from their other 2015s, this will be magnificent – but it needs time to get there. (RH)
Vibrant red fruit with a dark chocolate character and something like olive or juniper. Juicy, refreshing with astute bitterness that complements the cherry flavours perfectly. (RH)
Honey nose. So flattering because of the richness initially! But actually it's a bit bitter on the end too. Not classic! But chock full of easy appeal. (JR)