Robert Ampeau Savigny les Beaune Lavieres 2002

Vintages in Burgundy are often made or broken in just a few weeks before harvest. Never was that more true than in the topsy-turvy 2002 campaign, a vintage seemingly destined for mediocrity before turning out some of the most brilliant Chardonnays and Pinots of the last 25 years. The beautiful June weather, the dry dehydrating winds, and particularly three weeks of cool nights, much explain the class, intensity, and fabulous longevity of the 2002 vintage on the Cote de Beaune chez Ampeau — in both red and white. The Pinot Noirs, again from the top appellations on the Cote de Beaune, are bright, and rich, but not in the least over-concentrated. At once filled with black cherry concentration, yet light on their feet. From top estates and top appellations, these are wines that are almost at their peak now but still have plenty left in the tank.