2009 - Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, Alain Hudelot-Noellat

The 2009 Clos de Vougeot is impressive. Fresh, floral aromatics meld into a core of silky red fruit. The Clos de Vougeot tannins are there, but beautifully balanced by the textured, persistent fruit. The finish is feminine, persistent and impeccable in its elegance. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029. I tasted the following wines with Charles Van Canneyt, Alain Hudelot’s grandson. Van Canneyt showed me a few 2008s before moving into the 2009s. The estate did some chaptalization in 2008. Based on the selection of wines I tasted, that may have robbed some of the 2008s of their vintage character. Vintage 2009 seems to have played more to the estate’s strengths. The estate used 50% new oak for the Grand Crus and 30% for the 1ers. Importer: Atherton Imports, Menlo Park, CA; tel. (650) 328-6639

Medium red. Reticent aromas of diffuse red fruits, brown spices and smoky minerality. Brighter in the mouth, with a saline quality to the slightly medicinal flavors of red cherry, strawberry and dried flowers. Not a particularly opulent or fleshy style. Finishes with an edge of acidity and a note of fresh herbs.