2008 - Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru, Domaine des Lambrays

Medium red. Almost a confectionery sweetness to the aromas of black cherry, cassis and dried flowers. Fat, sweet, lush and fine-grained; this really fills the mouth with perfume. The berry, pepper and mineral flavors are complicated by a saline, earthy nuance. Finishes with superb breadth of fine tannins and excellent persistence. When I asked Brouin what would happen to the peppery acidity of 2008 with aging, he opened a bottle of the 1998 Clos des Lambrays, which showed a tannic edge but maintained a silky texture with mellow spice, truffle and molasses notes and plenty of energy for further aging. I would not have described this wine as peppery, and Brouin added that the 2008 began life with more fruit than the earlier vintage.