2014 Vosne Romanee Les Malconsorts Christiane

(100% vendange entier ; 55% new oak): Deep, dark red. Deeply pitched aromas of medicinal black cherry and clove; less floral and spicy than the "regular" Malconsorts but smells more important. Sappy and extremely concentrated; hugely rich without any impression of heaviness. According to Sieve, the rows of vines that go into this cuvée are a bit less limestone-rich, so this wine is silkier and more delicate in the early going. Boasts outstanding breadth and sap but will need considerable cellaring. Finishes with chewy but refined tannins and slowly building savory length. Grand cru quality here.

The 2014 Vosne Romanée 1er Cru les Malconsorts Christianne is vinified exactly the same way as the regular Malconsorts, and to be honest, I find that the aromatics are very similar. The difference is more on the palate with a touch more richesse and depth, but a similar taste profile. It just fans out with more conviction on the finish, although in a strange way I like the nervosité and detail of the regular bottling. It will be interesting to see how its develops.

Half-hectare parcel in the corner of La Tâche named after Etienne’s mother. 100% whole bunch and 60% new oak. Very rich on the nose, much more intense. Richly biscuity nose. Heady and truly exciting. Round and exuberant. Very exciting. (JR)