The 2009 Nuits St. Georges Les Vaucrains presents the darker, juicier side of Nuits in its rich, textured dark fruit. New leather, sweet spices and licorice are some of the aromas and flavors that develop in the glass. The muscular style and firm tannins argue for considerable patience. Anticipated maturity: 2024-2039. Jerome Chezeaux farms a total of 11.2 hectares of vineyards, of which 6.6 are estate owned. The fruit is 100% destemmed. Chezeaux favors fairly lengthy macerations. New oak levels are on the low side. As is the case at many estates, the 2009s have a slight upper hand in many of the entry and mid-level wines, while at the high end the 2008s are superb. Either way, these are some of the most beautiful, classically built wines I tasted on my trip. Patience is required, though, as these are sturdy wines that need bottle age.Importer: Rosenthal Wine Merchant, Pine Plains, NY; tel. (800) 910-1990