Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru “Bel Air” Reviews

The 2009 Gevrey-Chambertin Bel Air shows off a striking bouquet and layers of intense yet refined fruit. Silky and persistent on the palate, the Bel Air impresses for its remarkable class and superb overall harmony. The Bel Air (from a parcel above Clos de Beze) has 50% whole clusters and saw 50% new oak. It is a terrific effort. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. Biodynamic farming and non-interventionalist winemaking are at the heart of the approach at Domaine de la Vougeraie. The 2009s saw roughly a 25 days of maceration (including a week of cold soak) with one punch down a day. Once in barrel racking was kept to a bare minimum. A number of wines were bottled in late 2010 and early 2011. I tasted these wines with winemaker Pierre Vincent in March 2011.

(from vines that sit directly above Clos de Beze) 50% whole clusters. This is also quite floral with dried rose and violet aromas adding nuance to the fresh and distinctly earthy red currant and plum aromas that evidence discreet spice hints as well. The generous, indeed even fleshy middle weight flavors possess a supple mid-palate and a moderately firm and persistent finish. At the moment, this doesn't have the requisite complexity to be at the next level but there is enough material that it may develop in time. 2016+