(94-97 points) Impressive huge density of dark purple colour, this is a massive, super-saturated wine. Quite rich bouquet, is this too much? Very dark fruit on the mouth, a ripe sweetness of flavour but still with some redder notes. This is wonderful in its richer style, but may be a step too far for some.

The 2018 Grands-Echézeaux Grand Cru is consistent with my notes from barrel. On the nose, it offers dark berry fruit, a little earthiness at first giving way to black truffle and sous-bois. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins on the entry, good grip and a sturdy finish that will require bottle age. [Postscript: returning to the bottle the following evening, it has blossomed into a sublime Grands Echézeaux, the sturdiness disappearing and the wine attaining a sumptuous texture.

(92-95 points) Once again the nose is basically mute and about all that emerges, even with aggressive agitation, are pretty spice wisps. There is excellent mid-palate concentration to the broad-shouldered and powerful flavors that coat the palate with dry extract on the focused, balanced and gorgeously complex finale. While presently quite compact, this is extremely promising.

95+ More reserved than the Echézeaux, Cheurlin's 2018 Grands Echézeaux Grand Cru exhibits deep aromas of cherries, cassis and sweet berries complemented by hints of burning embers, espresso roast, black truffle and peonies. Full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, it's deep and structured, with considerable reserves of fruit framed by rich, powdery tannins. This is one of the most serious Grands Echézeaux I've tasted at this address, and it's unapologetically built for the long haul. - WK