2019 Gerard Julien Aloxe Corton Valozieres

From a 0.70-hectare parcel, the 2019 Aloxe-Corton Les Valozières 1er Cru has a focused, "cool" nose thanks to its north-facing vines. The palate is medium-bodied with good concentration, the 60% new oak just a little too dominant on the finish. Hopefully that will integrate with time. 85-87 points

This is a village level Valozières, aged in 60% new wood, all from Cavin, and racked in late October. Dense and intense purple. Solid nose, not very life affirming. There’s a good density of dark red fruit though, a touch of liquorice behind and very good length. Leaves quite an impressive aftertaste. I am revising my opinion upwards. 87-90 points

Discreet oak influence can be found on the equally sauvage-inflected aromas of red currant, dark pinot and cool earth. There is again very good energy and better volume to the medium weight flavors that exude a touch of salinity on the overtly rustic finale. This won`t win any awards for refinement, but I like the frank and direct character. 87-89 points

Notions of red plums, cherries, forest floor and raw cocoa introduce the 2019 Aloxe-Corton Les Valozières, a medium to full-bodied, round and fleshy wine that`s lively and elegant, testimony to Julien`s deft hand with this north-facing and potentially rustic site. 90 points