2021, Domaine Henri Magnien, ALOXE-CORTON, 1er Cru, 'La Coutière'

This is quite airy, indeed even perfumed, with its elegant and exceptionally pretty nose of essence of wild cherry, soft earth and a background hint of star anise. The polished, delicious and solidly concentrated middleweight flavours coat the palate with sappy dry extract that helps to buffer the lightly stony, austere and linear finish that displays excellent length. Lovely. 90-92 Allen Meadows, Burghound.

The 2021 Aloxe-Corton La Coutiere 1er Cru is tertiary on the nose, opening gradually to reveal flinty scents that underly the brambly red fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins. Taut and quite linear, there is a crisp line of acidity and an attractive spiciness that develops on the finish. One of the better Aloxe-Cortons in this difficult growing season. 89-91 Neal Martin, Vinous.