Fleurie Clos Vernay, Domaine Lafarge Vial 2017

A mild touch of reduction is just enough to mask most of the earthy dark berry fruit so I would suggest decanting this for a few minutes first. Otherwise there is good freshness and verve to the delicious flavors that culminate in a slightly dry and short finish. The dryness isn't fatal but it does comprise the balance.

Tasted from barrel, the 2017 Fleurie Clos Vernay is more expressive, its floral bouquet of red fruits and sweet cocoa complemented by savory bass notes of game bird. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, juicy and ample, with fresh acids and firm, chalky structuring tannins.