The 1978 Griottes-Chambertin Grand Cru has an exquisite bouquet with superb mineralite and delineation: black rather than red fruit, hints of wild mushroom mixed with bergamot and a distant tang of brine. The palate is medium-bodied with an almost viscous texture suggesting this was picked ripe (but not over-ripe). Powerful and burly, full of vigor and passion – this is a very fine Griottes-Chambertin that surpasses my expectations. Drink now-2020. Tasted November 2013.
Ignore old vintages of Joseph Drouhin at your peril, because they can absolutely stunning mature Burgundies.