Domaine Bachelet-Monnot, Maranges Premier Cru (Burgundy, France) 2010

 The 2009 and 2010 vintages for red Burgundy are looking like the best back-to-back duo in a generation, surpassing 1989 and 1990 in overall quality in my opinion.  The relative merits of the two growing seasons is now the remaining question of interest, and my leaning at the moment is toward the 2010s.  This terrific wine offers a persuasive case in point, offering an irresistible combination of fully ripe fruit, assertive but balanced tannins, exceptional freshness, and remarkable versatility for early enjoyment or long ageing.  I’ve tasted several vintages of this high-quality, high-value wine, and none have measured up to this rendition.