MERLIN

Le Grand Guide des Vins de France 2008
Bettane et Dessauve

Le Grand Guide des Vins de France 2008

Bettane & Dessauve

Olivier Merlin, formerly the right-hand man of Jean-Marie Guffens, has taken on an excellent domaine at La Roche Vineuse which he supplements by a négoce operation which gives ample scope to his wine-making talents. His wines are among the best-realised in the Mâconnais. He has recently acquired some exceptionally well-situated parcels of Moulin-à-Vent which give him full control of grape quality. His most recent vintages are models of style. The 2005, despite the vagaries of the weather, is as well-made as one could wish, and in red. A truly great vintage.

 

Pouilly-Fuissé

Mâcon Villages Mâcon la Roche Vineuse

Domaine du Vieux Saint-Sorlin 2005

15/20

Ample and well-balanced body, wood well integrated, vigour and style.

 

Mâcon Villages Mâcon la Roche Vineuse

Les Cras 2006

16/20

A well-made wine with an added edge of minerality which constitutes the special charm of this exceptional La Roche Vineuse terroir.

 

Moulin-à-Vent 2005

17/20

A high point of its appellation in a great year. Harmonious body, well-bred tannins, exemplary and exceptionally clean-cut vinification.

 

Pouilly-Fuissé Terroir de Vergisson 2006

15.5/20

Mineral, vigorous, aromatically stiff, even a little austere. Has a fine future.

 

Saint-Véran le Grand Bussière 2005

15.5/20

Mouth-filling, very mineral, taste slightly caramelised, mouth finish straightforward and precise, remarkably true to its terroir.

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