2022, Domaine Blain-Gagnard, BÂTARD-MONTRACHET, Grand CruA background hint of wood sets off aromas that include the essence of spiced pear, acacia blossom and an array of spice elements. Here too the big bodied flavours are succulent and concentrated with evident power that seems to build on the compact, balanced and equally built to age finale. I underscore however that this is presently an almost impenetrable block and I would suggest not touching a bottle for at least five to seven years. 94 Burghound.

juicy style that will offer plenty of near and medium-term appeal

grainy tannins and seamless freshness

declassifying to premier cru swaths of the Clos that didn't meet his expectations

Feels effortless and balanced

The nuance is beautiful

which means that the fruiting zone of rows planted along the slope are now shaded

and the Cabernets were picked in October

Fremières and Pas de Chat

It's bigger and broader in terms of frame and flavour than the 2019 – with floral

and quite mineral-driven

cool freshness and appealing mineral touches alongside liquorice

punchy wine with real breadth