Clos de Tart, Mommessin 2014

**Note: from vines that average around 60+ years of age**
There is whiff of new wood framing the intensely floral-suffused nose and in particular rose petal and lavender that add elegance to the fresh mix of mostly red and dark currant scents that are trimmed in discreet earth hints. There is a lovely sense of energy to the moderately dense middle weight plus flavors that culminate in a dusty, palate coating and beautifully long finish. At this point in its maturity and with this specific blend of components I would describe the 2014 version as understated and harmonious if less elegant than the 2013 was at the same point. We will of course see what ultimately is bottled but for now this seems very promising.

Tasted at the pre-dinner vertical to mark Sylvain Pitiot's retirement from the domaine, the 2014 Clos de Tart Grand Cru has a crisp, brambly bouquet with a touch of black tea hovering in the background; it is slightly autumnal and very elegant. The palate is very well balanced and natural, the acidity well judged with a pleasing saline aspect. There is a weightless intensity on the finish with just a dash of black pepper on the aftertaste. This is fulfilling its potential, but I will re-taste later this year to investigate further.