The 2012 Marsannay Cuvee St. Urbain comes from 30 to 40-year-old vines in Clos du Roy, Echezots and Longerois. It has a light marmalade-tinged bouquet with a touch of smoke. The palate is medium-bodied but with a firm grip. Perhaps a little angular in the mouth, it has a fine broody finish that will hopefully open up with several months’ bottle age. Drink 2015-2019.
I was tipped off about the quality of Laurent Fournier’s work at Domaine Jean Fournier a few months ago, and made a beeline for their stand at the Grand Jours de Bourgogne. Laurent is one of the appellation’s exciting young winemakers destined to put Marsannay on the map. A bit like Sylvain Pataille, his wines brim with pure, ravishing Pinot Noir fruit. They are not shy wines, but come at you with their generous fruite and silky textures. If you are yet to discover the delights of either Marsannay or Laurent’s wines, then I suggest you do your palate a favor.
Importer: Vintner Select, Mason, OH; tel. 800-597-1491;www.vintnerselect.com; See also Berry Brothers and Flint Wines in the UK.