Vacheron Sancerre Belle Dame 2001

Vacheron Sancerre Belle Dame 2001: A more mature appearance here, still with vibrant freshness and youth, but offset by some bricking hues. Lovely nose, quite enticing, mature, meaty and gamey, very organic, with notes of spiced, peppered cherries. A fine palate, delicate on entry, developing a fuller feel though the midpalate, underpinned by a seam of chalk-edged tannin. Very nicely balanced, fairly precise, well structured and certainly an impressive and appealing wine, as it glides across the palate. Lovely finish, gentle and refined, with good length. A fine example of what red Sancerre should be. May improve further. 18+/20 (1/5/06)