1997 Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret Grands-Echézeaux Grand Cru

The ruby-colored 1997 Grands-Echezeaux reveals black fruit aromas intermingled with notes of tobacco and cedar. This is a powerful, full-bodied, supple wine with flavors reminiscent of stones, earth, minerals, cigar smoke, and mixed berries. Well-structured and extremely flavorful, it should be at its best if drunk over the next 6 years. Vincent Mongeard, who now runs this famous estate, is extremely happy with his 1997s. "When I compare my wines to those of my colleagues, I am comforted in what I was able to achieve. Even though it is not the vintage of the century, it is certainly extremely good." Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel (205) 980-8802.