As the first aromas rise from the glass, it is clear that Domaine Harmand-Geoffroy has produced yet another classic expression of the Gevrey-Chambertin terroir. The nose is beautifully perfumed with aromas of dried black cherry, wild forest berries and citrus blossoms against a darker, earthier backdrop of black tea, wet herbs, dried roses, forest floor, wet clay with a touch of exotic spice. Harmand-Geoffroy has a gift for accentuating Gevrey’s masculinity, and there is a subtle yet primal meatiness here that I love. This is true, traditional Gevrey-Chambertin that telegraphs the village’s terroir; not just “good red Burgundy”. The wine is medium-plus in body with concentrated fruit and soft, yet structured tannins with flavors that echo the nose. In the glass, it has a concentrated dark ruby core moving to light garnet and orange reflections on the rim, beginning to show a touch of age at about four years old. Although open and effortlessly delicious now, this wine will hit a new level of savory grace in 3-4+ years from now, before peaking for another five years. If drinking this wine now, please decant for 30 minutes then serve in a large Burgundy stem at just above cellar temperature. Next, sit back and observe as the wine’s layered and finely nuanced story slowly unfolds over the next few hours. This is a fascinating bottle that is full of surprises. With its ample fruit and texture, it is a perfect companion for Braised Duck Legs with Dried Cherries. Alongside this phenomenal recipe, this wine is an experience you don’t want to miss.