Quote:
There are intense aromas of red berries (raspberry and redcurrant) mixed with chocolate and a toasted bread note enhanced by a touch of vanilla. It is well-balanced, generous and silky with smooth tannins and delicate oak note. Long aftertaste.

The wine is exactly as the quote, but the finish and length is shortening - but don't buy at standard Merchant prices unless you plan to drink by Sping 2010 at the latest.

There is a super yet subtle spicy oak note in there, I can't put my finger on how to describe it though. The oak note is very fresh and young, like sawn oak that has been stacked for a while - No bitter brett at all, but regretably, it is 2004 fruit which was not as full and ripe as it could be in easier years.

2004 is not a laying down vintage, This wine is very lovely, with a lovely Pinot Noir nose, but it is fading now. Merchants should start discounting fairly soon. If they don't, avoid if over £16.50 or so. I love Beaune as you know, but 2004 is not for keeping.

I have one left, I shall enjoy this 2004 slightly chilled on the patio. Lovely and refreshing like that, because the tannins are low and fine.

What you are paying for, is the skill of Chanson to make a graceful Burgundy from less than perfect fruit in a difficult year.

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Duncan