Chambertin, Domaine du Clos Frantin 2013

There is hint of menthol on the overtly sauvage aromas of mostly cool and earthy red berry fruit. There is fine intensity and plenty of muscle to the almost pungently mineral-driven big-bodied flavors that possess outstanding persistence on the well-balanced finish. Note however that this is going to need a very long snooze in a cool cellar as this is very much built for long-term aging.

Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine du Clos Frantin, aka Albert Bichot, has a very well defined bouquet, extremely well focused with vibrant raspberry coulis and wild strawberry scents infused with wonderful mineralité. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp acidity, sappy in style with good depth towards the finish. There is real substance here, impressive length and the sophistication you expect from a Chambertin. This punches well above its performance in barrel -- this is well worth seeking out. Tasted September 2016.