(93-96 points) This is aromatically similar to the Echézeaux but with even more floral elements present. The exceptionally rich, concentrated and markedly powerful big-bodied flavors display impressive size, weight and muscle on the hugely long finish. This too will need to develop more depth, but the underlying material certainly appears to be here for that to happen. In a word, terrific.

The seductive power of this grand cru creates a 2020 conundrum: The value of the wine is based on its potential to develop over decades, yet it is hard to resist drinking right now. A taste gives the sensation of an earthy black beauty in motion, a sculptural feel to the tannins, as if caressing stone buffed smooth, the rock giving way to silk. “I feel lucky opening this bottle,” one panelist commented, the wine’s comforting, earthy tannins lasting for minutes with whispers of gentian and spice.

The core of cherry, blackberry and plum flavors is accented by smoke, spice and vegetal notes in this sinewy red, whose supple texture is offset by grainy tannins, while the fruit muscles through to a lingering conclusion. A terrific start leads to an even better finish. Best from 2026 through 2047. 12 cases imported.