2010 Domaine A. et P de Villaine, Mercurey “Les Montots” AC Red Burgundy, France.
This super tasty Burgundy has exotic elements and lush fruit with an almost Gamay quality, but with classic Pinot sex appeal. Much has been said and written about this little Domaine owned by Aubert de Villaine, the managing director of the famed Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, though it is through his experience and guidance that his family estate has become a quality project that remains one of the great value Domaines in the region, and all of his wines offer outstanding quality, especially this Mercurey, which year after year remains one of my favorites. The Les Clous Chardonnay is also a lovely wine, even if I tend to prefer the reds. The 2010 Mercurey is less ripe and fruity than the 2009, but it has better length and balance with blackberry, plum and sweet cherry fruit, some grenadine, dried roses and peppery spice notes. There is no impression of wood, so seamless and pure is this Pinot Noir it leaves only a whisper. This is a very lovely wine that can be enjoyed now and for the next 3-5 years. Imported by Kermit Lynch.
($45-50 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
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