2018 Meursault Clos de la Barre

Outstanding. There is a phenolic note (think olive or nut oil elements) to the notably ripe white and yellow orchard fruit that includes hints of apricot, white peach and passion fruit that are trimmed in just enough wood to notice. There is good verve to the delicious medium-bodied flavors that possess fine mid-palate density that is offset by the firm acid spine supporting the chiseled, linear and bone-dry finale. This is more tightly wound than it usually is and should reward mid-term cellaring.

The 2018 Meursault Clos-de-la-Barre is a clear step up from the Désirée, showing much more delineation and more Meursault-like in character, touches of hazelnut infusing the red apple and light peeled peach skin aromas. The oak here seems to be better integrated. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity and touches of orange peel and apricot. Fresh and focused, culminating in a persistent spicy finish. Excellent.

The 2018 Meursault Clos-de-la-Barre has a reserved and quite austere bouquet at the moment, which surprising considering the growing season. This is a stubborn Meursault. The palate is well balanced with fine acidity and quite saline in the mouth, with a touch of orange peel on the sharp, racy finish. Excellent.