Potel-Aviron, Juliénas (Beaujolais, Burgundy, France) 2009

($19, Frederick Wildman):  Juliénas, one of the ten named cru of Beaujolais, benefitted, like the rest of Burgundy, from the perfect 2009 growing season.  And Potel-Aviron, one of the region’s most consistent producers, produced stunning 2009s.  You can basically choose his 2009s blindfolded.  This one has beautiful concentration without losing any of the exotic spice and earthiness that characterizes the wines of Juliénas.  Unusual for Beaujolais, this one will actually be better, more suave, in another year or so as the hint of firm tannins melt away.  If you’re drinking it now, open it a few hours in advance, even decant it, and serve it with hearty fare. 90 Michael Apstein Oct 16, 2012