1996 Vincent Girardin Corton-Renardes Grand Cru

(91-94 Points)   (Wine Advocate)

This is the first vintage in which Vincent Girardin is offering a Corton Renardes, and, judging from its quality, I hope there are many more to come. Medium-to-dark ruby-colored, this wine exhibits massive ripeness on the nose, displaying scents of raisins, prunes, and chocolate-covered cherries. The palate is no less ripe, offering loads of ripe black cherries, dark raspberries, and cassis, as well as a silky texture, and a full body. It does not have quite the depth or concentration of the Perrieres, but is so opulent, fruit-packed, and persistent in the finish as to deserve a equal rating. (PR)   Review Date: 04/1998