Richebourg, Thibault Liger Belair 2017

The 2017 Richebourg Grand Cru has a deep, broody nose of dark berry fruit, crushed stone, espresso and touches of allspice. Aeration really benefits these aromatics and allows them to open and gain more red fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a lactic note on the entry, and quite oaky, though it is simpatico with the concentrated fruit. Displaying great depth and backbone, this is a powerful and aristocratic Grand Cru that will require several years in bottle. Tasted blind at the Burgfest 2017 tasting. Drink between 2027-2065

Clear punchy purple. Sweet coconut oak, while the fruit is very concentrated, quite high octane. The acidity is quite pronounced at this stage but the fruit will persevere and this should continue to grow. Real elegance at the finish and just a little bit of orange zest. This wine has very interesting complexity, though it has not yet grown into its final shape.