Henri Jayer Echezeaux Grand Cru 1996

Henri Jayer Échézeaux Grand Cru 1996 is a legendary wine from one of the most esteemed producers in Burgundy. Henri Jayer, a name synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship and innovation in winemaking, is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to extract the purest expression of Burgundy’s terroir. The Échézeaux Grand Cru vineyard, located in the Côte de Nuits, is considered one of the top Grand Cru sites in the region, and the 1996 vintage is highly regarded for its balance, depth, and aging potential.

Color: The wine has a beautiful, deep ruby color with garnet tinges, indicative of its age and the depth of Pinot Noir that characterizes this Grand Cru.
Nose: The bouquet of the 1996 Échézeaux is profoundly complex, with an initial wave of ripe red fruits—think dark cherry, raspberry, and strawberry—followed by an evolving array of secondary and tertiary aromas. With time in the glass, delicate notes of forest floor, truffles, and damp earth emerge, along with hints of spice, such as cinnamon and clove, which add intrigue. Subtle floral notes of violet and rose petals are also apparent, alongside an undertone of well-integrated oak, giving the wine a sense of elegance and refinement. There is also a faint smoky character, along with a slight touch of leather and dried herbs, which speaks to its age.
Palate: On the palate, the wine is a true reflection of Henri Jayer’s mastery. It has a silky, velvety texture and a superb balance between ripe fruit, acidity, and tannins. The red fruits are more restrained than on the nose, giving way to deeper flavors of plum, red currant, and a touch of dried fig. The tannins are incredibly fine and integrated, providing structure without overpowering the fruit. As the wine evolves on the palate, earthy and savory notes of leather, tobacco, and a hint of graphite come forward, adding layers of complexity. The acidity is still vibrant, contributing to the wine’s freshness and elegance despite its age.
Finish: The finish is long, refined, and complex, with lingering flavors of spice, red fruit, and a slight mineral edge. There is a seamless balance between the fruit and earthy notes, and the wine leaves a lasting impression of sophistication and grace.

Henri Jayer Échézeaux Grand Cru 1996 is a rare and exceptional wine that showcases the very best of Burgundy. The combination of Henri Jayer’s meticulous winemaking techniques and the unique terroir of Échézeaux results in a wine that is both elegant and powerful, with the ability to age gracefully and develop complexity over time. This wine is a true collector’s item, offering a memorable tasting experience for those fortunate enough to taste it.