Clos de Vougeot 1988, Château de la Tour
The Clos de Vougeot grand cru divides opinion like no other Burgundy lieu-dit. At least a third of the clos is not grand cru quality since it is too far down the slope of the Côte which means the vines' roots don't have far to reach for water reducing aromatic complexity. We tasted this Clos de Vougeot blind and enjoyed it immensely. Although it may be 3-4 years past its peak. Profound dark brownish purple colour followed by floral, wild strawberry, gamey aromas; then creamy, custard, girolles mushrooms and almond. Dark, chewy cherry fruit on the palate framed by the classic Clos de Vougeot barn-like limestone and oak structure. Possibly drying out a little on the palate and the aromas are not as vif as they once were. A tremendously interesting wine that fully reflects the terroir as one would expect from Chateau de la Tour which is actually located inside the Clos. The photo shows the Clos de Vougeot on September 20th 2007.