On our annual trip to Burgundy last year, we started to realize just how exciting the 2010 vintage was, but now that the wines are being released, it’s official. The purity, focus, and grace of these wines is unmatched in recent memory. So, when we got the chance to show all of our favorite 2010 releases from Jean Michel Guillon with his importer Olivier Daubresse, we said, yes, please!
First up was the Marsannay Clos des Portes, which was our pick for holiday drinking. It showed beautifully as always, and from there it just got better!
The Nuits St. George was surpisingly elegant, considering the reputation of the area for muscular, powerful wines. The Gevrey Chambertin Pere Galland, named for Jean Michel’s winemaking mentor, however, definitely showed the ‘blood and iron’ side of red Burgundy. Powerful, dense and mineral, it will cellar beautifully. 
Doug and Olivier were both on hand to give their perspective on Burgundy in general, and the 2010 vintage in particular. Anyone who’s met Olivier knows how knowledgeable he is when it comes to all wines French, but traveling with him in Burgundy makes it clear that it is his happy place. So, it was a pleasure to listen to his stories and thoughts on this region that is so close to his heart.
To top off the evening, we tasted the epic Grand Cru Mazis-Chambertin. Tasting through the village and 1er Cru wines first allowed us to fully appreciate the step up in intensity and elegance that separates the Grand Crus from the pack.
The Mazis-Chambertin is unfortunately sold out, but we still have good stock of the 1er Crus, including the sleeper hit of the evening, the 1er Cru Petit Chappelle. Despite coming from a 1er Cru vineyard, in Jean Michel’s capable hands, it borders on Grand Cru quality most years, and 2010 was no exception.
Thanks to Olivier, Doug, and all of you who took time out of your busy holiday season schedules to taste with us. Click here to check out everything you missed! And don’t forget, there are still a few spaces left in our annual Champagne class – call or email us to snap one up!
