2012 Maison Joseph Drouhin Vosne-Romanée Les Petits-Monts 1er Cru

The 2012 Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Petit Monts comes from two small parcels picked separately on September 21. It has a very complex bouquet that to be honest, out-classes the Echezeaux. Those 15% whole cluster berries add another level of complexity here, offering a sense of clarity and space on the nose, until eventually mulberry and wild strawberry aromas muster more vigor. It has a vibrant spicy opening with compelling dark berry fruit, red currant and a touch of cassis that dovetail into a silky smooth finish which, as Veronique mentioned, bears more semblance to Richebourg than La Tache. This is outstanding.

Author: Neal Martin

(Veronique Drouhin's vineyard; vinified with 25% whole clusters): Good bright, deep red. Seductive aromas of blackberry, black cherry, licorice and black tea, lifted by a floral topnote. Tactile and energetic, conveying a strong soil impression to the raspberry and salty mineral flavors. Really echoes on the finish in a 2010-like way.

Author: Stephen Tanzer

Issue: January/February 2014