Joseph Drouhin Beaune Greves Premier Cru 2017 750ml

You'd expect one of the best Beaune-based négociants to make an impressive red from what is generally regarded as the appellation's best premier cru, and you'd be correct. Made with 25% whole bunches and 30% new wood, this shows the aristocratic class of the site, with an appealing amalgam of perfumed oak, stemmy complexity, tangy acidity and smooth plum and raspberry fruit.

This is very open and spicy with white pepper, dried strawberries and hints of cherries. Full-bodied and dense with gorgeous ripe fruit and intensity. Layered and flavorful. Needs a year or two to come completely together. Drink after 2022.

The 2017 Beaune 1er Cru Les Grèves offers up a sweet bouquet of cassis, cherries, forest floor and spices. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, with a deep core of succulent fruit that displays excellent concentration, largely concealing its fine structuring tannins before concluding with a chalky finish. Barrel Sample: 90-92