2016 Gevrey Chambertin Coeur du Roi
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Tasting notes
Richer and more gourmand than Les Evocelles, the 2016 Gevrey-Chambertin Coeur du Roy wafts from the glass with a deep-pitched bouquet of cassis, blackberries, grilled meats, rose petals, espresso roast and dark chocolate. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, ample and layered, with a deep, fleshy core of intensely concentrated old vine fruit that largely conceals its fine structuring tannins, underpinned by succulent acids and concluding with a long, palate-staining finish. If Les Evocelles offers a more tensile, mineral expression of the appellation, the Coeur du Roy is the stereotypical Gevrey in all its glory.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
(these vines range in age from 50 to 105 years, according to Dugat; made with 60% whole clusters and aged in 50% new oak): Initially reticent aromas of boysenberry, violet, licorice and espresso show subtle complexity and a stronger torrefaction quality with aeration. Plush in texture but less expressive and harmonious today than the Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes. The purple fruit and licorice flavors are nicely lifted by herbal and spicy nuances from the stems, which contribute elegance and lift. Very easily digestible and not at all hard, but the building tannins will nonetheless require some patience. (Incidentally, Dugat was not ready to present his Gevrey-Chambertin Les Evocelles Vieilles Vignes, as the wine finished its malo very late and had just been racked.)
50- to 102-year-old vines, 60% whole bunch, two-thirds new oak. Very lifted and concentrated. Luscious fruit and very immediate even if there is considerable structure underneath. Big and bold but a bit more freshness than of old. (JR)
About the producer
Dugat-Py, based at the base of the Combe de Lavaux in Gevrey-Chambertin, stands as one of Burgundy’s most revered producers, known for crafting Pinot Noir of incredible depth, power, and age-worthiness.