2010 Chassagne Montrachet Vieilles Vignes

The feminine side of the Chassagne comes through in the 2010 Chassagne-Montrachet Vieilles Vignes, which is quite understated, notwithstanding the old vines. The Vieilles Vignes impresses for its silky, polished personality. It is an excellent choice for drinking over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2012+. Vincent Morey began harvesting on September 17th. All of the 2010s were bottled before the 2011 harvest. Morey told me he seeks to maintain freshness in his wines, and therefore sees nothing to gain from longer elevage. I also tasted a handful of highly attractive 2011s from barrel. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802

A little richer and more concentrated on the nose than the Passetemps. Powerful and dense on the palate with tang and zest riding on the back of that intensity. More concentration than elegance at this stage. (JH)

Bright yellow. Musky overripe pear, pineapple and flowers on the nose. Nicely concentrated peach fruit shows surprising acidity and cut if modest nuance. Finishes fruity and sweet, with good dusty grip. This will give early pleasure.