Vosne-Romanée's Sexiest Wines?
Trompe l'oeil scene on the wall at the Domaine François Lamarche |
I am pleased to say that I found a thoroughly delicious line-up: wines of laid-back fruit surrounding profound characterisation of each vineyard. These will all make serious and delicious drinking in the years to come.
The Wines
2015 Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Nuits, François Lamarche
£84 in bond per 6 Drink 2018-21
This is instantly fresh on the palate (the nose was a bit discombobulated when I was there, but will completely resolve itself with a short period in bottle) and there's a fabulous thread of acidity that lends real snap to the delightful red fruit. And, within, there's fresh limestone structure that lends a layer of seriousness to this wonderful "entry level" burgundy. Proper Lamarche issue…
"This comes highly recommended. 89-91/100." Neal Martin
2015 Clos Vougeot Grand Cru, François Lamarche
£570 in bond per 6 Drink 2020-38
Superb aromas of sloe and piquent orange and dark, pure fruit. This is really very rich and quickly fresh, with flavours of orange. Fleshy-rich and supple wine with a core of very fine-grained, spicy mineral structure that becomes more upright, just taking off sky-ward with a rocky-solid freshness at the end. Most impressive CV.
"This is a delicious Clos de Vougeot...93-95/100." Neal Martin
2015 Echézeaux Grand Cru, François Lamarche
£570 in bond per 6 Drink 2019-35
The nose is all about the purity of the red and black cherry and currant fruit along with a darkly floral pot pourri scent and a hint of chocolate, perhaps from the wood. In the mouth and the entry is supple and cool and of dew-fresh fruit. There's a core of really electric structure here that steadily emerges. Great vim and precision to this and a great fruity sustain leading on to a complex finish, fresh and mineral. Nicole thinks this is her sexiest wine this year and I would have to agree. Lovely.
"This is wonderful. 93-95/100." Neal Martin
Email Caspar[at]boweswine.co.uk to order these wines