1976 Bouchard Pere et Fils Beaune 1er Vigne de L’Enfant Jesus

From a 4 ha monopole in Beaune, this wine is known for its immense structure and requires many years to be ready. The bouquet was tantalizing with beautiful aromas of darkest blackberry, mushrooms, and old growth forest floor. The palate had raspberries and plums, with a somewhat rough-hewn texture and moderate acidity. The fruit was just starting to fade but holding on still, and the finish was long and complex, changing in the glass. This was very good, but I would love to try a 78.

1976 Maison Leroy Auxey Duresses Rouge

This was a really fun side by side. This wine was made from what was thought to be Leroy’s home vineyard in Auxey, and definitely has stood the test of time, it felt amazingly fresh, with shocking amounts of red fruits bursting from the glass on the nose and palate. There were cherries and strawberries, and rich deep soil and a bit of moss on the nose, with more rich fruit on the palate. This had great energy, finesse, and surprising depth. Elegant and filigreed texturally, there was a bit more acidity and balance than the Bouchard. The finish was remarkably long. Lovely wine.