Domaine Sylvie Esmonin Clos Saint-Jacques, Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru, France 2023

Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru "Clos Saint-Jacques" 2023 is a stunning expression of one of Burgundy's most revered Premier Cru vineyards, crafted by the highly respected Sylvie Esmonin. Widely regarded as the finest Premier Cru in Gevrey-Chambertin and often considered worthy of Grand Cru status. Clos Saint-Jacques consistently produces wines of extraordinary depth, finesse, and longevity. The outstanding 2023 vintage reveals an intensely aromatic bouquet of wild raspberry, black cherry, rose petals, violets, blood orange, and Asian spice, layered with hints of forest floor, crushed stone, licorice, and subtle oak. The palate is both powerful and remarkably refined, combining exceptional concentration with silky, perfectly integrated tannins and vibrant acidity. Waves of red and dark berry fruit unfold alongside savory mineral notes, culminating in an exceptionally long, elegant finish that lingers for minutes. While captivating in its youth, this is a profoundly age-worthy Burgundy that will continue to evolve for decades, showcasing the unmistakable pedigree of one of the Côte de Nuits' most legendary vineyards.

"The 2023 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos Saint-Jacques ler Cru includes 60% whole bunch and the same level of new oak. I love the aromatics here, which are perhaps more refined and elegant than those of the 2022 last year, with more red fruit and a little more terroir expression coming through. The palate is medium-bodied with saturated tannins, slightly powdery in texture with a patina of oak that will assimilate in time. Yes, this is still more precocious in style than, say, Armand Rousseau or Bruno Clair, yet it remains a quite delicious proposition." Vinous 93-95