Benjamin Leroux Gevrey-Chambertin 2018

Fifty per cent of Leroux’s 2018 Gevrey hails from 50-year-old vines in Les Seuvrées (bordering Morey) with the northern, limestone-rich La Justice and some old-vines in Les Jeunes Rois (on the Brochon side of the appellation) completing the picture. There’s no doubt the Jeunes Rois fruit has brought a greater dimension to this cuvée, and we’re glad Leroux decided to keep it in the blend—he was tempted to bottle the 2018 as a separate cuvée. Each parcel was vinified separately before blending, there was 30% whole-bunch used, and the wine was aged in 600-litre and 225-litre barrels (20% new). It’s a beautiful example of Gevrey—deep, and with a structured, mineral backbone, but oh-so-fine. Super long, it should drink well young (with food and a good decant) and will certainly make old bones. “Strawberry, spice, a flicker or mint, perhaps some citrus zest here too, and floral notes. It’s medium-bodied, soft in acidity, but the tannin presents very well with a grainy chalky feel, red fruits and a little pepper on a finish of good length. Good. More to come, or so it feels.” – Gary Walsh, Wine Front, 93 Points The Finer Details Style – Red Wine Varietal – Pinot Noir Country – France Region – Burgundy Vintage – 2018 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13%