Ladoix 1er Cru "La Micaude" 2005, Capitain-Gagnerot

The wine media raved about the 2005 vintage in France. Possibly because 2003 was too hot and 2004 too cool. Finally a sunny, fruity, rich-flavoured year came along! Prices rocketed up despite the high yields. The reality? The 2005 vintage was too warm to produce classic pinots and the chardonnays are all too big -- 2004 and 2007 are much more stylish for white Burgundy. This is no secret in Burgundy. So while this Ladoix 1er Cru is utterly enjoyable, it will not achieve the complexity of a 2000, 2001, 2002 or 2008. A rich plummy and cherry nose gives way to broad red fruit flavours with ripe, fruit-coated tannins. Finishes on a plum stone kick. This Ladoix pinot is deliciously dull. Dominated by the 2005 ripe fruits it lacks the personality that a tricky 2000 or 2008 offers. Drinking now and will not age beyond 2011. Tasted at the domaine in September 2007.