2016 Vosne Romanee Les Brulees
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Tasting notes
Much more fruit concentration than their Clos d'Eugénie 2015, and the most wonderful granitic complexity on the length. There is quite prominent smoky oak in the mix too, and the fruit finishes super-ripe. Relaxed tannins and smooth acidity make this very drinkable now, but the primary fruit will take its time to develop. Gets broader and richer in the glass. (RH)
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Jancis Robinson MW
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Vosne-Romanée Aux Brûlées 1er Cru is blessed with a very complex and engaging bouquet: blackberry, raspberry, hints of black tea and kelp. It is mercurial in the glass, constantly evolving. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, yet there is certainly ample backbone to this Vosne-Romanée. There is a wonderful crescendo from start to finish that fans out. Great depth and impressive in terms of complexity, this is an intellectual and captivating wine that will give 25-40 years of drinking pleasure. Tasted blind at the 2016 Burgfest tasting.
The 2016 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Les Brûlées comprises four barrels this year, two of them new. It includes 60% whole bunch fruit. It has a deep purple color. The nose is very pure, a mixture of black cherries, blackcurrant, crushed violet and just a hint of cassis. The palate is medium-bodied with a fresh entry, a fine line of acidity, the whole bunch lending just a soupçon of stalkiness/greenness that counterbalances the ripeness bestowed by the growing season. Michel Mallard believes that he has "touched something" with regard to his Aux Brûlées, and it should evolve into an excellent expression of the vineyard.