Domaine Denis Mortet, Fixin, Vieilles Vignes 2016

(from two parcels of vines between 50 and 60 years of age; Mortet vinified this wine with 50% whole clusters as he tried this experiment in 2015 and believes that the it yielded a more elegant wine from an essentially rustic terroir; 25% new oak): Bright, dark red. Deep aromas of blackberry and dark cherry are complemented by an element of smoky oak. Plush and fine-grained if quite primary and a bit youthfully medicinal, with its crushed black cherry and menthol flavors given juicy lift by harmonious acidity. This creamy yet vibrant wine finishes with firm but ripe tannins and lovely rising length. Strong juice!

• Reviewer Name: Stephen Tanzer
• Review Date: January 2018