Over the past year, The World of Fine Wine has shared numerous tasting notes and scores from our writers about Burgundy wines. This article highlights some of the standout bottles that caught attention in 2024.
Clos des Lambrays: A Century of Legacy
A remarkable tasting event at Clos des Lambrays showcased its wines spanning a century, reinforcing its position among the elite grands crus of the Côte d’Or, according to Neil Beckett. With a rich history tied to Burgundy and its cultural heritage, Clos des Lambrays has consistently delivered wines of unique identity, integrity, and quality.
During a celebratory dinner on November 16, 2023, the estate’s current custodian, Jacques Devauges, reaffirmed its status as one of the pinnacle grands crus. Attendees experienced a selection of 13 wines from 1923 to 2022, including a barrel sample of the 2023 vintage, which elevated this claim in the minds of collectors, journalists, and trade representatives present.
Featured Vintages
1934 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru
- Notable for its clarity and intensity, this vintage is characterized by a ripe, sweet bouquet with red fruit and vanilla aromas. The balance between elegance and richness on the palate makes it a remarkable wine even 100 years after its harvest, deserving a perfect score of 99.
1926 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru
- Highlighted by its old-rose scent and superb balance, this wine has retained freshness and complexity. Though not as rich as its 1934 counterpart, its grace and elegance have captivated many, earning it a score of 99.
Insights on Modern Vintages
The 2020 vintage was particularly well-received amid a market appreciating concentrated yet fresh wines. A blind tasting revealed varied performances across producers, with some excelling in their choices throughout the growing season.
Domaine Leflaive Chevalier-Montrachet 2020 showcased bright minerality and oak, with a seamless complexity that promises great aging potential, rated 98.
La Romanée Comte Liger-Belair 2020 was praised for its pure and fine fruit, balanced with supple tannins, achieving an impressive 99.
Meanwhile, the 2021 vintage from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti has been noted for its finesse and subtlety. Described as classic and very beautiful, these wines exhibit a bright character with moderate proportions and remarkable freshness.
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti 2021 Romanée-Conti Grand Cru stands out with its ethereal delicacy and vibrant flavor profile, rated 97.
The 2022 Vintage
Finally, in contrast to the challenge of 2021, the 2022 vintage delivered a harvest filled with vitality and balance. The sunny season led to captivating, charming wines that are both approachable and delightful.
Domaine Perrot-Minot Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru 2022 captivated tasters with ethereal intensity and a haunting finish, achieving a staggering 99–100. Similarly, Domaine Comte Georges de Vogüé Musigny Grand Cru 2022 showcased power coupled with sophistication, rated 99–100.
These reflections on various vintages from Burgundy offer a compelling narrative of quality, tradition, and the ongoing legacy of one of the world’s most esteemed wine regions.