Chambertin Clos de Bèze, Louis Jadot 2018

A spicier and slightly cooler nose reluctantly offers up notes of red cherry, violet, sandalwood and a whisper of smoked meat. The relatively refined and nicely vibrant medium weight plus flavors are not quite as concentrated but there is a bit more energy on the balanced and beautifully persistent finale. This too should age and improve for several decades.

One of the most backward and reserved wines in the cellar, as well as one of the most promising, is the 2018 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru (Domaine Louis Jadot), a serious cuvée that unfurls in the glass with aromas of wild berries, dark chocolate, grilled squab, orange rind and espresso roast. On the palate, it's full-bodied, fleshy and layered, with a muscular chassis of rich, powdery tannins, considerable concentration and a long, resonant finish.