Domaine Jacob 2005 Tasting Notes

Savigny-lès-Beaune rouge 2003
Hautes Côtes de Beaune rouge 2003  

This year’s wines are from the canicule (heatwave) vintage of 2003.  The exceptionally hot, dry weather following some late spring frosts resulted in a very low yield.  This led to a high concentration of natural sugars and flavours coupled with low acidity in both the red and white grapes - hardly typical of burgundy!  Despite the fact that 2003 is completely different from the ‘classic’ burgundian vintage of 2002, it is nevertheless outstanding - albeit for relatively early drinking rather than cellaring.

Both the Savigny and the red Hautes Côtes are darker in colour than usual and have a concentration of up-front fruit flavours, which are delicious, but quite unusual in red burgundy.  This is an amazing vintage that will probably be talked about for decades.  If you still have any 2002 left, keep it cellared while you enjoy this.