Bottled in spring 2013, the 2011 Corton Grand Cru has an airy bouquet that is quite deceptive. Give it modest aeration and it unveils a hidden fruit intensity - raspberry and strawberry leaf, a slightly sauvage element to the aromatics. The palate is medium-bodied with a very zesty, inviting entry. There is a meatiness to the fruit, irony almost, with superb definition and focus toward the finish. This has real character. This is a very accomplished Corton Rouge and a worthy follow-up to the outstanding 2010.
Time to fill in a small gap of notes relating to the most significant grower in the Corton hill - Bonneau du Martray. Jean-Charles suggested we taste recent vintages together after the 2012s, which I was more than happy to do.
A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet, various American importers, including: Atlanta Wholesale Wines, Atlanta, GA; tel. (404) 696-9440; C-est Vin, Arlington, VA; tel. (703) 243-3559; Scott Paul Wines, Oregon; tel. (503) 852-7300, Wines Unlimited, New Orleans, LA; tel. (504) 897-0191