2016 Pommard 1. Cru Les Rugiens Henri Boillot

(from equally sized parcels in both Rugiens Hauts and Bas that measure ~1 ha). A very pure extract of red pinot fruit-suffused nose is liberally cut with earth and rose petal hints that are also trimmed in just enough wood to remark upon. The rich, full-bodied and tautly muscular medium weight plus flavors have an abundance of mouth coating extract that helps to buffer the prominent supporting tannins that make clear that an extended period of cellar time will be required if you wish to see this mineral-driven beauty at its peak. 2031+

(in order to allow the seeds to ripen, Boillot waited until five days after he picked his Volnays to harvest this fruit on September 28, with 12.8% potential alcohol; 50% new oak): Moderately saturated bright medium red. Brooding aromas of dark fruits and menthol. Chalky and penetrating but youthfully tight, conveying a stronger impression of medicinal reserve than the Volnay Les Caillerets. A distinctly masculine, classic Pommard, juicy but imploded in the early going. The mounting finish features firm, mouth-saturating tannins, hints of spices and white pepper, and savory soil suggestions. The Boillots' holding is in Rugiens-Haut, on white soil and sand with relatively little iron content.