Tasted Wednesday, April 24, 2024 by Collector1855 with 68 views
The 2014 Burgundy vintage is famous for its whites, which are considered among the best, if not the best, of this millennium so far. But what about the reds? This is the question we wanted to answer tonight.
The Vintage: The 2014 red Burgundy vintage is considered a mid-quality, cooler vintage, just like in Bordeaux, which we tasted last month. The weather was marked by a cool and wet spring, which delayed flowering and led to uneven fruit set in some vineyards. However, this was followed by a warm and dry summer and a moderate fall, which provided favorable conditions for ripening.
The Style Overall: The style of 2014 red Burgundy leans toward freshness, with bright red fruit flavors and vibrant acidity. The wines tend to be lighter in body than warmer vintages, showing elegance and finesse rather than power and concentration. Upon release, Decanter Magazine noted: "The 2014 red Burgundies show charming fruit and refreshing acidity, ideal for early enjoyment or short to medium-term cellaring." And Jasper Morris commented: "Despite initial challenges, 2014 has produced delightful red Burgundies with bright fruit tones and fine tannins, showcasing the best terroirs and skilled winemaking." Compared to its peers, it is better than 2011, on par with 2013, which has even more acidity, slightly behind the more complete 2012, and of course behind 2015 and 2016, the leaders of this decade.
How Are They Drinking Today: The above assessment was confirmed today, with one caveat. Right now, the 2014 red Burgundies are in a good place to drink. They offer a balance between youthful vibrancy and some development, making them enjoyable now for those who appreciate a more restrained and nuanced style. The fly in the ointment tonight was the tannins, which were dryer than expected. The Premier Crus drank well, the Grand Crus need more time, but for both there is a lingering concern that the fruit will fade faster than the tannins will soften. Perhaps it was the "root day" from the biodynamic Steiner calendar that was the culprit. Who knows, but it was another wonderful and educational evening among wine lovers.
For more info see: https://www.vinifera-mundi.ch/pdfs/frankreich/burgund/jhg/Burgundy_2014_10years_on.pdf
2014 Maison Albert Bichot Chablis Grand Cru Moutonne Domaine Long-Depaquit 94 Points
France, Burgundy, Chablis, Chablis Grand Cru
Pale yellow. Expressive nose with flint, lime and a hint of grass. Racy palate but not thin. Much better mid mouth density than the Fèvre Le Clos next to it.
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2014 Domaine William Fèvre Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos 88 Points
France, Burgundy, Chablis, Chablis Grand Cru
Light yellow, green hue. True to the Fèvre style, this one is light and grassy. Already in the nose more lime and herbs than lemon with vanilla. Too thin on the palate for my taste. Others liked it more than I did.
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2014 Domaine Christian Moreau Père et Fils Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos Clos des Hospices dans Les Clos 94 Points
France, Burgundy, Chablis, Chablis Grand Cru
Medium yellow. Expressive nose with ripe lemon and buttery elements. Rich and generous for a Chablis without being heavy. I like the freshness on the finish. More Meursault than Chablis in style though.
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