Produced from extremely young vines (averaging 5 years old), the Beaune Clos De La Feguine reveals a smoke and mineral-scented nose and a tangy, lively, medium-bodied personality with flavors of stones and candied citrus fruits. While the freshness and flavors of this wine are excellent, it does not have the length and staying power to merit a higher rating. I have no doubt that this steeply sloped and well-placed vineyard will produce first rate white Beaunes after the vines mature. Drink now to 2000. As my scores and tasting notes indicate, I was tremendously impressed with the quality of Prieur's wines. What had been an average-to-good estate has rapidly become one of Burgundy's finest domaines. A final note: I was given the opportunity to taste this estate's 1996s, both in white and red, and was blown away by their quality. More on them in a future report.
Imported by William Deutsch and Sons, Armonk, NY; Tel. (914) 273-1221.