Modern Classics?

[David M. Bueker]

Sipping on a 2014 Chablis right now, and it’s just so perfectly Chablis. Bright acids, slightly tart citrus fruit, and more minerals than a quarry.

It got me thinking about modern classic vintages. What are the years that have defied climate change, and produced great wines in a region that if not carbon copies of the legendary years, at least maintain all the same virtues. 2001 in Germany immediately came to mind, but it was almost a quarter century ago!

2010 for Red Burgundy seems to fit the mold. Maybe 2016 in Bordeaux?

Thoughts?

Sipping on a 2014 Chablis right now, and it’s just so perfectly Chablis. Bright acids, slightly tart citrus fruit, and more minerals than a quarry.

It got me thinking about modern classic vintages. What are the years that have defied climate change, and produced great wines in a region that if not carbon copies of the legendary years, at least maintain all the same virtues. 2001 in Germany immediately came to mind, but it was almost a quarter century ago!

2010 for Red Burgundy seems to fit the mold. Maybe 2016 in Bordeaux?

Thoughts?

2021 in many regions is a more "classic" year, producing wines of lesser ABV and greater structure.

[David M. Bueker]

I actually thought about 2021 in Germany, but so many wines are harsh/unbalanced. It’s an acid-drinker’s vintage.

For Bordeaux, Loire and other Atlantic wines, I would consider 2014, 2017 and 2021 more classically cool climate in character and possibly 2024 from what I have read. I can't afford classy Burgundy in recent vintages; I agree that a lot of Chablis has lost brightness and minerality in typical modern vintages. Southern Rhône in 2021 shows a bit more acidity than most surrounding vintages; I appreciate that extra freshness.

[David M. Bueker]

The few 2021 Southern Rhône wines I have tried to date have been a touch brighter than recent vintages. Agree that it’s welcome.

Totally agree on 2014 white Burgundy. There are other good recent vintages, but it stands out. Last 2 times I was in France took advantage of great pricing on '14 Dauvissats and others.
I've liked the 2016 (and 2014) Bordeaux,and some friends praise 2019. But I no longer make a real effort to taste age-worthy reds (Bordeaux, Piedmont, etc) so have no firm opinions.
Agree with Mark re 2021 France in the places I've had a decent amount of wine (Loire, Beaujolais, white Burg)