2024 Berthaut-Gerbet Fixin Les Arvelets

The 2024 Fixin Les Arvelets 1er Cru contains just over 50% whole cluster this year. That is apparent on the nose and is at the liminal point where they almost overwhelm the fruit underneath. We will have to wait to see how it shows after bottling. The palate is medium-bodied with quite saturated tannins, a touch of white pepper and clove, a little stemmy on the finish but on consideration there is sufficient fruit to absorb that with time. 90-92 points

Crimson rather than ruby, some density of brisk red fruit. Five barrels only, with 60% whole bunch which really livens up the finish, and very persistent. Very coherent, with a whisper of chocolate as well as pepper, but above all a delicious red fruit throughout. 90-92 points