2/01. Bought at auction, Jan-97 for $115.
Griotte Chambertin at its best can be the tastiest among the Gevrey Grand Crus. Domain Ponsot is the most inconsistent among the top (B) producers [and the best among the inconsistent producers :)]. I have had heavenly wines as well as only so-so examples from Ponsot.
I have had this wine some 18 months ago. It was superb!
COLOR: Pretty dark ruby with thin clearing around the rim.
NOSE: Noticeable deep cherry aromas together with a nice clean 'Bourgogne Nose'. The overall intensity of the nose is somewhat restrained however.
TASTE: Complex yet backward flavors. Closely knit structure that is more impressive than opulent. Good fruit and winyness, yet there is something hard on the palate. Not overly tannic, but tannins are a bit harsh. It seems the wine is in its 'dormant' phase now.
LENGTH: Medium and somewhat dry finish.
TEXTURE & BALANCE: Medium-full bodied, highly structured wine. Far from revealing all that it has at this stage. The terroir is there, the 1990 vintage is apparent in the ripeness of the fruit. The ingredients are all there but they haven't harmonized yet. The balance between them indicates though that in 2-3 years this wine will shine brightly.
OVERALL: Fine. This wine surly needs more time..

MARK: 17.5/20.

BUY MORE? Maybe.

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Copyright 1996-2003.
Jacob "Yak" Shaya.