GRANDS ÉCHEZEAUX

(from a .30 ha parcel; 2022 was the first vintage). Gros noted that this came in at 14.7% potential alcohol. Not surprisingly given the alcohol level, there is a mentholated component to the wonderfully spicy nose that offers more aromas from the red side of the fruit spectrum than the high maturity level would typically suggest. The succulent and rich flavors aren’t as concentrated as those of the Grand Maupertui but they just as powerful on the noticeably warm bitter pit fruit and oak-inflected finale that displays outstanding length. This is certainly impressive in its fashion though I can’t say that the style appeals to me. Drinking range: 2035 - Rating: 90-93 Allen Meadows, www.Burghound.com (Jan 2025)

The 2023 Grands-Echézeaux Grand Cru, matured in around 60% new oak, has a very well-defined bouquet with a mixture of red and black fruit, forest floor and light graphite scents. There is just a little herbaceousness in the background, with a slight caramel note emanating from the wood. The palate is medium-bodied with a ripe veneer of red fruit, though there is still a touch of herbaceousness underneath. There is quite a lot of sucrosity in this Grand Cru, particularly on the finish. I probably prefer the 2022. Drinking range: 2028 - 2042 Rating: 91-93 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Jan 2025)

The canicules had more of an effect here. The Grands Echezeaux shot through to 14.7% while the other vineyards did not accelerate so fast. A deep purple with no black. The nose however does have a touch of 2020 about it, sun-dried cherries, sucrosity in the mouth then a tighter sterner finish. In another cellar this would be unremarkable but it stands out more here in view of the elegance of the usual Anne Gros style. Drinking range: 2030 - 2037 Rating: *** Jasper Morris - Inside Burgundy  (Nov 2024)