Chambolle Combottes, Domaine Ghislaine Barthod 2018

A pure and expressive bouquet of cherries, ripe red berries and violets introduces Barthod's 2018 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Aux Combottes, a medium to full-bodied, supple and enveloping wine that's elegantly fleshy and nicely concentrated, underpinned by succulent acids and ripe tannins. From a precocious site, this nicely balanced wine vindicates the decision to pick early.

The attractively fresh nose offers notes of violet, black cherry and subtle anise and tea wisps. There is both excellent verve and richness to the refined mid-palate of the medium weight flavors that exhibit good length on the bitter cherry-inflected finish. This juicy, even succulent, effort should be approachable young if desired.