Maison Joseph Drouhin   Bonnes Mares

1999 Bonnes-Mares

By Maison Joseph Drouhin

1999 Bonnes-Mares from Maison Joseph Drouhin, Burgundy, France

An illustrious gem in the pantheon of Burgundy's esteemed crus, the 1999 Bonnes-Mares from Maison Joseph Drouhin resonates with the wisdom of the venerable winemaker's touch, enshrined within this particularly remarkable vintage. This year is a testament to the savoir-faire embodied by Drouhin’s approach to viticulture and the articulation of terroir through the lens of each harvest.

 

A Vintage Defined by Precision and Grace

The tail end of the 20th century saw Burgundy graced with a vintage of poise and finesse, one that leveraged both climatic generosity and meticulous handcrafting. The 1999 vintage in Bonnes-Mares eloquently showcases how an exceptional growing season, complemented by Maison Joseph Drouhin's light but assured oenological touch, can culminate in a wine that stands as a beacon for fine wine investors and connoisseurs alike.

Upon the pour, this noble Pinot Noir effuses an aromatic kaleidoscope with a melange of ripe cherries, blackberries interwoven with subtle earthiness and a hint of sage. As it envelops the palate, structured yet silky tannins emerge amidst layers of dark fruit, enlivened by a vibrant acidity that is as much a credit to the ’99 vintage’s temperate conditions as it is to the Bonnes-Mares distinct terroir. The finish—a lingering symphony of spice and minerality—inscribes its pedigree firmly in memory.

 

Investment Elegance: A Study in Patience and Potential

As time graces this remarkable vintage, it unfolds subtly, revealing depth without diminishing its initial vibrancy; a hallmark of truly great wines with profound investment appeal. Its evolving nature mirrors the economic principle of appreciating assets; every moment allows its complexities to become more pronounced, enhancing both its inherent value and desirability.

A distinguished offering from Burgundy's celebrated canvas of varietals, the 1999 Bonnes-Mares from Maison Joseph Drouhin stands poised for discerning portfolios. Its representation of an outstanding vintage loaded with hallmark characteristics promises not just drinking pleasure but fiscal acumen.

Current market price

$8,380.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

504

Scores and tasting notes

90-91

The 1999 Bonnes Mares reveals a saturated, medium to dark ruby color, and a spicy, black cherry-imbued nose. This is a masculine, muscular, broad shouldered wine with a medium-bodied personality crammed with coffee beans, blackberries, and cassis. It has outstanding density of fruit and the structure and depth required for moderate aging. Drink it between 2003 and 2012. Importer: Dreyfus Ashby, New York, NY; tel. (212) 818-0770.

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 22 June 2001

Vintage performance