Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes 2011, Domaine Collotte

The only problem with the Chambolle appellation is that it is too small (152 ha compared with 410 of Gevrey) and therefore prices are often too elevated. Most of the wines are tremendous, whether village quality or grand cru. This Chambolle-Musigny, produced by the Philippe Collotte domaine based in Marsannay has a proud, deep ruby colour which is nevertheless transparent. A gentle nose of fresh wild strawberry and red cherry backed up by floral aromas of roses and rosehips. Background oak barrels. Good fruit texture and structure on the palate. A feminine structure with soft tannins on the finish. Pleasant to drink now but not showing much leg. Representative of the lighter 2011 vintage. Like a hermit crab, I feel this Chambolle has concealed itself in its shell, typical at the three year mark, and needs another two years to open up. Scores 19-23/30 for a Chambolle. Domaine Collotte should not of course be confused with the "sans-culottes" being toasted in this image by Louis XVI.