1991 Latricieres Chambertin

The 1991 Latricieres-Chambertin is opulent, with a gorgeously scented, evolved nose of smoky black-cherries, herbs, and Asian spices. There is even a scent of Peking duck. Rich, supple, and with a sweet mid-palate that comes from low yields rather than residual sugar, this wine can be enjoyed now as well as over the next 12-15 years. All of Faiveley's grand crus from Gevrey-Chambertin are outstanding wines and far superior to what he produced in 1986, 1987, 1989, and probably even 1988. They were made from very low yields and the balance between the tannin and fruit favors the latter. The 1991 Mazis-Chambertin, Chambertin, Clos de Beze, Charmes-Chambertin, and Latricieres-Chambertin are among the top wines of the vintage. Faiveley enjoyed success in 1991, producing deeply colored, powerful, noticeably tannic wines. These are not wines to consume early, but rather to cellar for several years while the tannins melt away. I do not foresee any difficulty with most of these wines drying out because of excessive tannin as they possess the concentration of fruit necessary to support the tannin. NOTES ON THE 1992s FROM BARREL: Faiveley's 1992s are not as rich or intense as the 1991s. They are made in a soft, accessible, fruity style that consumers will be able to enjoy immediately. Importers: Ideal Wines & Spirits, Medford, MA and Henry Cavalier Selections, Boulder, CO.