2022 Joseph Drouhin, Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru, Les Petits Monts

The 2022 Vosne-Romanée Les Petits Monts 1er Cru, which had recently been racked from tank into barrel, was picked in a single day on September 2. This has a beguiling bouquet, the 35% whole clusters assiduously used, hints of white pepper and clove infusing the red berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy, mainly black fruit, quite peppery in style, though it does not impede the terroir expression. There is very fine precision on the finish with impressive length; this is an excellent Petit-Monts.

The 2022 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Les Petits Monts has also turned out nicely, exhibiting aromas of sweet red berries and plums mingled with exotic spices and rose petals. Medium to full-bodied, ample and layered, with good depth at the core, melting tannins and this cuvée's signature saline finish, it will only improve with a second winter in barrel.

Belongs to Véronique. Just above DRC’s Petits Monts (a new wine for them). Historically not well known but vey consistent. Block called Snow White because when Drouhn bought it the vines were so low that their viticulturist accused Robert D of buying a vineyard for dwarves. Picked 2 September. Cask sample. Deep crimson. Very luscious fruit, approaching grand cru depth but finesse too. Long and dancing, with a great future. (JR)