2013 Domaine Méo-Camuzet Vosne-Romanée Les Chaumes 1er Cru

(recently finished its malo): Heathy dark red. Enticing aromas of dark raspberry, kirsch and licorice. A ripe, almost chocolatey fruit bomb in the mouth, but nicely high-pitched for its richness thanks to strong acidity and subtle floral notes of violet and rose petal. Finishes with a tight tannic spine and lovely floral persistence. Méo has not yet ruled out fining some of his wines, but he isn't yet sure if their clenched tannins are a function of the vintage or simply due to the slow evolution of the wines.

The 2013 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru les Chaumes is initially understated on the nose, however, it unfurls with engaging raspberry, crushed strawberry and mineral aromas despite it remaining tightly wound. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and taut strawberry and pomegranate fruit, a hint of pepper on the tip of tongue lending it a pleasant fiery note right on the finish. There is a tangible sense of energy here, if not quite the persistence of a top les Chaumes from Méo-Camuzet.