1996 Chevalier Montrachet
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Tasting notes
Produced entirely from purchased wine (as opposed to grapes or must), the Chevalier-Montrachet was aged in 50% new oak. It reveals floral and mineral aromas and has a bone-dry, medium-to-full-bodied, highly-delineated, and focused personality. Flint, slate, chalk, and dusty flavors are found in this precise and persistent wine. Projected maturity: 2002-2006. This wine had been bottled one week prior to my visit, having spent 14 months on its lees. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel (205) 980-8802.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin (Vinous)
William Kelley (Robert Parker)
More reviews and scores
Extravagant aromas of pear, menthol, minerals and smoked meat. Intensely flavored but silky and suave, with a firm edge of acidity providing focus and grip. A rather feminine grand cru, especially for the vintage, and not at all a blockbuster. Very long, subtle, stony finish.