I was so disappointed by the Leeuwin Estate Shiraz I decided to open something I knew would be good.
Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru 2002, Domaine des Lambrays
I have a bit of a thing for Grand Cru Morey St. Denis wines, especially those of the perfumed and elegant style. Clos des Lambrays is more like Clos St Denis than Clos de Tart, Clos de la Roche or Bonnes Mares in that it is a wine of beautiful fragrance and style. The 2002 had a lovely Pinot-perfumed nose; a very strong, ripe Pinot character especially when compared to the 2001 which was intensely terroir-driven. There was a balanced amount of new oak that could be detected on the nose. The palate was quite big and fruity, but very well balanced by good acidity and a nice minerality on the finish. This was a very pleasing glass of stylish Pinot Noir. I prefer the 2001 as it is more refined and complex, probably with a better ageing profile as well, but I am pleased to have seven more bottles of this to drink over the next fifteen years or so. A top glass of Pinot Noir, and a very good glass of Burgundy.