Chambertin Clos de Bèze, Grand Cru, 2024

The two Amoureuses are quite an act to follow and to compound matters, this is a much more backward wine than either of them. The Groffier Beze is given a touch more new oak in elevage to complement its salty, wild fruited character, so that stands to reason. And of course this is a parcel of old vines in a prime spot in one of the greatest vineyards in Burgundy, so immediacy is not expected. For all that, there’s a core of taut sweet berry fruit, a saline edge, and a feeling of focussed driving power. Grand, vertical, persistent, with a finish that is all salty stones and complex haunting fruit. There’s clearly so much more to come, but for now, the sense of energy and drive is absolutely thrilling.