An expressive wine, seductive for the silky texture and purity of cherry fruit. Licorice, spice and sandalwood notes add depth as this cruises to a long, smooth aftertaste, echoing the spice and toasty oak accents. Best from 2018 through 2030. — BS

Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru has an elegant bouquet, not as energetic as Virgile Lignier's own Clos de la Roche, adorned with earthy black fruit and dried flower (iris and violet) aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with sweet ripe raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, the tannins exerting a gentle grip in the mouth, fine structure with impressive density on the svelte and modern-style finish. Perhaps more approachable than other Clos de la Roche 2013s, yet this is still a worthy wine. - Neal Martin