2015 Domaine Michel Gros, Vosne-Romanee Premier Cru, Aux Brulees

The 2015 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Aux Brûlées, which is aged in 60% new oak, has a well-defined bouquet, although at the moment it is dominated by that level of new oak. The palate is again balanced and focused, and demonstrates good substance and grip. The new oak does create a carapace that makes it difficult to gauge the fruit profile or the terroir underneath. Hopefully that will be absorbed with a few years in bottle.

Quite intense on the nose. Some jewelly, sweet fruit. Very serious wine made with a light touch. Lots of delivery and persistence. Exciting. Well done. Smoky finish. Seriously long. (JR)

Cask sample. Mid cherry. Deliciously scented with red fruit and a touch of spice. Utterly seductive aroma of intense red cherry. On the palate too this is delicious – so much lively fruit, just the right level of fine tannins and freshness to balance. So much pleasure in a young wine, with the oak well integrated. (JH)