The 2009 Chapelle from the Rossignol brothers is a very, very strong example of the vintage, with a sense of purity that is quite rare in general in this vintage. The fine nose wafts from the glass in a youthfully complex mélange of plums, black cherries, cocoa powder, violets, a bit of fresh thyme and vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and very suave on the attack, with a really lovely base of soil tones, a fine core, ripe tannins and excellent length and grip on the focused and well-balanced finish. One of the top 2009 reds I have had out of bottle.

This is also quite pretty with a perfumed cool and airy nose of high-toned and spicy red pinot fruit that evidences earth and mineral undertones both of which continue onto the intense detailed and restrained medium-bodied flavors that culminate in a powerful focused and moderately austere finish that delivers impressive persistence.

The 2009 Chapelle-Chambertin caresses the palate from start to finish. Fresh and vibrant throughout the Chapelle comes across as strikingly beautiful in every dimension. Dried flowers spices and berries wrap around the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. -AG