Burgundy has become, once more, a hugely important area for us. We like to think that this is due to our increasing reputation as an excellent source of burgundy which itself has resulted from our continually evolving range. At the beginning of the nineties we already had generous allocations from many of the most famous domaines but still we went out to find the new superstars. We continue to add to our collection but it means exercising a little charm, giving assurances as to the credentials of our customers and being in there early because the best new places can be choosy and are signed up very quickly. This is challenging buying but the wines are lovely.
The heat of 2003 has produced powerful, somewhat atypical wines. 2002 is extremely successful with the promise of some very fine wines. 2001 has seen reds with a lot more structure and weight than in 2000 when the wines are soft and fruity for relatively early drinking. 1999 was rightly hailed by many to be a superb vintage:it has wonderful fruit for immediate drinking and sweet tannins for long ageing. 1998 is a good vintage with excellent fruit levels and soft ripe tannins for mid-term drinking. 1997 produced soft, supple wines for drinking before 1996 and 1995. 1996 is one of the finest vintages for many years, with a wonderful balance of sweet fruit and acidity. 1995 saw reduced yields and an excellent ripening season combine to give the best wines since 1990.The quality in 1994 is uneven with many insubstantial wines although the best growers have done better. In 1993, rain at vintage time failed to spoil the small, ripe grapes: classic wines with good fruit and structure were made. They are attractive and capable of long ageing.
GO BACK