Forward, spicy and richly textured, displaying concentration and density, leading to a lovely, lingering finish. DRC Echezeaux seemed to take a step forward this year in seriousness and intensity, in contrast to its normal demeanor of youthful exuberance. The largest share of the 4.67ha holding is in Poulaillères, next to the heart of the vineyard in Echezeaux du Dessus. The grapes were picked on 30th August and 1st September, between two small rainstorms that helped the fruit finish its ripening to perfection. (Charles Curtis MW)

The 2020 Echezeaux Grand Cru is one of the standouts in this tasting. Opulent and sumptuous to the core, the Echezeaux is a real head-turner. I suppose it is not as complex as some of the other wines in this range, but as Aubert de Villaine once said to me about his Montrachet "You don't always want complex, do you?" A rush of dark blue/purplish fruit, spice, chocolate, spice and lavender races across the palate. Readers will find a racy, hedonistic Burgundy that will drink well with minimal cellaring. What a wine!

Echezeaux starts out rich and fruity, with a succulent feel to its black cherry, black currant and violet notes, remaining vibrant, refined and long.

Note: from a total holding of 4.67 ha of 50+ year old vines from 2 different climats, 90% of which is in Les Poulaillères, and the remainder is in Clos St. Denis. An exuberantly spicy and wonderfully floral nose exhibits additional aromas of poached plum, mocha, jasmine tea and an interesting hint of tangerine peel. The rich, concentrated and powerful bigger-bodied flavours possess an absolutely gorgeous mouthfeel thanks to the abundance of sappy dry extract that also buffers the firm core of ripe tannins shaping the stunningly long finish. This actually isn't quite as refined as the Petits Monts, but it is definitely more powerful and imposing, as well as slightly more structured.