The 2014 vintage in Burgundy has been rung in with a great deal of local optimism and excitement. After three successive vintages of incredibly low yield and quantities, the growers of the Cote de Nuits were ready to welcome an easy vintage and the chance to make a bit more wine. Easy seemed to be the word on everyone's lips as the growing season presented few climatic challenges and viticultural decisions were by and large straightforward.

Tasting the wines from barrel, we quickly learned that the reds were easy to taste, forward and classical, while the whites were truly remarkable. More than one winemaker came forward to declare that 2014 saw the best white wines in a lifetime. Good levels of acidity kept the bundles of ripe fruit lovely, while the overall character of the vintage was in such good balance that the wines will be approachable from a relatively young age, while the best will age very well indeed.

In general the Cote de Nuits fared a bit better than the Cote de Beaune by virtue of having escaped the savage hail which effected the latter. As much as the hail devastated yields, it fortunately did not impact on quality and many producers managed to make some truly exceptional wines with great forward fruit and firm structure.

Overall this is a vintage with a lot to offer and for Burgundy lovers, it is one to celebrate. Each appellaton was true to style and the winemakers had room to impart their own subtle influence on the finish product. Freshness, flavour and verve are the keyword this year and they come together in bundles.