2016 Domaine Emmanuel Rouget Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux 1er Cru

The 2016 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Cros Parantoux was only slightly touched by the frost, with Emmanuel losing around 10% of the fruit, no more. Matured in 100% new oak, it has a very pure bouquet with blackberry, raspberry preserve, cold stone and hints of violet gently unfolding in the glass, not a million miles away from a Richebourg (both stylistically and geographically!). The palate is beautifully balanced with luscious red fruit coordinated with a fine line of acidity, blood orange and hints of licorice with blood orange/tangerine notes toward the sustained, pixelated finish. Superb…but maybe the Beaumonts has the edge this year.