2015 Domaine Dujac, Clos de la Roche Grand Cru

Domaine Dujac's 2015 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru is wonderful, one of the stars of the range this year, wafting from the glass with a kaleidoscopically complex bouquet of blackberry, cassis, cinnamon, dried rose, orange peel and pencil lead. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, multidimensional and complete, with a deep core, fine-grained tannins and perfect balance, its finish long and sapid. While this is concentrated—even powerful—it is also beautifully elegant, avoiding the overt muscularity of which this grand cru is capable.

The 2015 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru has been aged in 80% new oak, though frankly it was difficult to discern since it was so enmeshed. The nose is beautifully defined, perhaps more precise than the Clos Saint-Denis, with crystalline red cherry and strawberry fruit, cold limestone and violet scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, stunning balance and beguiling purity towards the finish that has immense grace and tension. This is one of the finest Clos de la Roche of the 2015 vintage.

Bright, dark red. Expressive aromas of briary raspberry, sandalwood and coffee. At once densely packed and juicy, with its red berry fruit complemented by salty minerality and subtle earth tones. Boasts outstanding breadth and finishes with substantial ripe tannins and superb persistence.

23 barrels made! New barrel but very rich and winning! Firm and sweet and round. But with a slight fall-off on the end. Spicy. (JR)