Pethel's 2006 Savigny-les-Beaune Les Planchots originates in the home vineyard of his winemaking facility, a site – he is quick to emphasize – that he would not have chosen as a fruit source, and whose vines labor under clonal handicap and an absence of tough love in their upbringing. Especially with that in mind – not to mention the challenges inherent in the vintage – this acquits itself admirably, with sour cherry, cherry pit making for a pleasantly tart, bitter, and invigorating cling. There is ample concentration here, and despite a faintly drying note to the finishing tannin a sense of almost white wine-like refreshment. I would plan to enjoy it by 2010. For more details on the domaine of North Carolina ex-pat Blair Pethel, please consult my report on his 2006 vintage whites in issue 180. A Becky Wasserman Selection (various importers), Le Serbet; fax 011- 333-80-24-29-70; also imported by Pas Mal Selections, New York, NY; tel. (201) 567 2028 and Schneider’s of Capital Hill, Washington, DC tel. (202) 543 9300