Bonnes Mares, Domaine Francois Bertheau 2005

**Note: a .38 ha parcel located 100% in terres rouges**
Just as it was from cask, this is much more reserved and while not inexpressive, I had to again work the wine in the glass for it to grudgingly reveal a glimpse of the ripe earthy red and black pinot fruit nose that continues onto the rich, full, muscled and powerful flavors that offer excellent volume, particularly on the solidly structured, indeed borderline chewy finish that offers exceptional persistence. This is at once deep and classy and will require a full decade to uncover its full, and considerable, potential. I want to point out that while qualitatively equal, the character and style of the Bonnes Mares is quite different from that of the Amoureuses and though it may arrive at its peak at roughly the same time, the Bonnes Mares should hold there longer.