2016 Joseph Drouhin, Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru 1x750ml

Robert Parker 91

The 2016 Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru was reduced to just four hectoliters this vintage. It includes 20% whole cluster fruit and will spend 16 months in oak. It felt a little muted at first but soon found its voice with pretty crushed violet-tinged blackberry and cassis fruit. I like the delineation here. The palate is well balanced if not as nuanced or refined as the Clos de Vougeot, more masculine than its peers with a saline finish that lingers. Good, but not the greatest this year. [Neal Martin, 11/06/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2033

Vinous 91

The 2016 Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru has a fruit-driven, slightly confit bouquet that feels later picked than its peers and without the same delineation and terroir expression. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, fleshy and high-toned with notes of fig and dates infusing the red fruit. Sweet with veins of marmalade towards the finish. Not bad, but I feel there is better to come. Tasted blind at the 2016 Burgfest tasting. [Neal Martin, 10/22/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2050