2015 Georges Noellat, Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru, Les Petits Monts

The 2015 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru les Petits Monts is matured in two-thirds new oak (three barrels.) It has a beautiful, nuanced bouquet that effortlessly disguises the new oak, very delineated and pure with vivacious morello cherry, wild strawberry and candied orange peel aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth and harmonious entry, hints of orange sorbet/blood orange filtering through the red cherry and strawberry notes, merging into the more mineral-driven finish. I appreciate the transparency here, the frisson of energy. It should give 12-15 years of drinking pleasure, possibly more.

(50% new oak; from vines planted in 1955): Bright, dark red-ruby. Slightly reduced nose offers black raspberry, smoked meat and a whiff of oak. Concentrated, easygoing and sweet but a bit youthfully subdued today, with its raspberry, mineral and dark chocolate flavors in need of a racking. Finishes with suave, broad tannins and a crunchy quality that leaves the palate refreshed. Lovely potential here.

Pale crimson. Light savoury nose. Then exceptionally sweet on the palate. Real lift and freshness. Not tiring at all. Real race and transparency here. So neat and well balanced. (JR)