Gambal's 2007 Corton Charlemagne is bright and chalky in cast, almost a bit severe in a way one comes to expect from youthful wines of this great cru, but that does not represent the norm for them this vintage. Lime and chalk dust in the nose; a lean but polished palate, and long, salty citric, invigorating finish make for a wine promising 6-8 years of interest - if not more - but needing another couple in bottle to fairly evaluate. American Alex Gambal (for more of whose improbable story, readers are referred to issue 171, and for more about whose 2007 harvest, consult the introduction to this report) has established a solid reputation for his negociant firm both within France and abroad. And like so many negociants of both the bootstrapping and well-established sorts, he is seeking to benefit from every possible opportunity to access top-quality fruit or vineyards, and at the same time to purchase vineyard land I promising but less-celebrated locations. After a collection of 2006s that showed the precarious, borderline blowsy side of that vintage, it is a pleasure to report on a far more entertaining not to mention elegant crop of 2007s. Gambal was very sparing and early with batonnage, and tends to rack all of his wines out of barrel in mid-summer, bottling one portion before the next harvest, and leaving his more concentrated crus (or any that were especially late to undergo malo) in tank until February. Various regional U.S. importers

An elegant style, rich and juicy, offering lemon, peach, and spice flavors. Balanced on the sleek side, with lively acidity unleashing a fresh finish. This is almost ready now. Best from 2012 through 2028. 40 cases imported. -BS