Faiveley Côte de Beaune Villages 1997

Faiveley Côte de Beaune Villages 1997: This wine has a typical cherry-red Pinot hue when it meets the glass. The nose is initially very dumb, and seems slightly confected. With time more pleasant strawberry and particularly cranberry fruit aromas develop, followed by a hint of gaminess. A typical Pinot nose, although it doesn't promise anything exciting. The palate has medium body, with soft, round, chalky tannins. The wine has good balance, but seems short on fruit, and has soom bitter oak, which shows up especially on the finish. Overall this wine is drinkable, but does not really excite me. Quite good. (27/5/00)