The 2011 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Les Lavieres comes from the domaine-s 2.61 hectares of vines planted in 1954. It has a well-defined nose with dried herbs infusing the red plum and cranberry fruit. Yes, it is slightly leafy, but it is well defined and poised. The palate is medium-bodied with dry tannins. There is a little hardness here, although the judicious dash of black pepper on the finish is welcome. This premier cru just needs to loosen up in bottle. Drink 2016-2023.
The wines from Domaine Chandon de Briailles have not been reviewed in this publication for (what appears to be) a number of years. I have encountered some decent wines recently, and this is just a small inroad to their portfolio that I hope to expand upon in subsequent reports.
Importers: David Bowler Wines, New York, NY; tel. (212) 807-1680; Ideal Wines & Spirits, Medford, MA; www.idealwine.us; Beaune Imports, Berkeley, CA; (510) 559-1040; www.beauneimports.com