2010 Joseph Drouhin, Beaune Premier Cru, Le Clos des Mouches Rouge 1x750ml

Robert Parker 92

The 2010 Beaune Clos des Mouches Rouge has an engaging spicy, peppery nose while the palate is vibrant with crisp tannins and displays greater focus than its white namesake this year. Crunchy red fruit in the mouth with a long spicy finish that leaves the mouth tingling. This is an excellent Beaune in possession of the backbone to age. Drink 2014-2022+ It is always a pleasure to meet Veronique Drouhin, although this was actually the first time that I had visited their winery on the southern fringe of Beaune. a oeAll the estate has been under biodynamic practices since the mid-1990s (including Chablis) and organic since 1988,a she said to me as we commenced the tasting. a oeWe have been ECOCERT certified since 2009.a I asked her what tangible difference biodynamics have made. a oeThe estate wines have a lot of depth and energy but what is really better is the pH,a she said. She also cited the arrival of head winemaker Jerome Faure-Brac in 2005 as another reason for the improvement in quality. Now their approach is for no compromise on the fruit and to exact precise viticulture for each vineyard. Veronique told me that their entry level Laforet aims to encapsulate the whole picture of Bourgogne. a oeWe know the wine is consumed young so it is not heavily extracted,a she told me. a oeWe look for a lovely fruity, round, elegant Bourgogne. You know, it is easier to make an Amoureuses than a Burgundy Rouge because of the quantity. It is aged in older barrels and it is bottled sooner than in the past.a Importer: Dreyfus Ashby & Co., New York, NY; tel. (212) 818-0770 [Neal Martin, 29/08/2013]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022

Vinous 92+

Moderately saturated bright medium red. Pretty aromas of red raspberry, flowers and crushed stone. Juicy and very pure but youthfully imploded, with a penetrating minerality contributing to the impression of inner-mouth tension. Lovely delicacy and finesse here. The very long, sappy, echoing finish perks up the taste buds. Still a baby, and wonderfully light on its feet. [Stephen Tanzer, 03/01/2013]