- CRITICAL REVIEWS
- WINEMAKER NOTES
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Vinous
2015 Domaine Dujac Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Aux Malconsorts
The 2015 vintage was the easiest growing season we had in a decade, though oïdium pressure was high and kept us on our toes. The summer was very dry and often hot. It gave us small yields but wonderful grapes to work with.
IN THE VINEYARD
It all began by yet another warm winter. Spring got off to an early start with a warmer than average March. Bud-break began mid-month, following which the vines developed at a steady rate. Oïdium pressure was high from the beginning, requiring vigilance throughout the season. The vines grew rapidly, leading to an early flowering around the 4th of June. The month of June turned out to be the warmest since 2003, causing poor fruit set in some plots. There was a heat wave at the end of June and through the first week of July, causing sunburn in places and rainfall was minimal. With the exception of a few light showers, August was dry and sunny. We began to pick in Puligny Montrachet on the 28th and 29th of August, following with the whites in Morey Saint Denis on the 31st. We waited another week before picking the reds from the 7th to the 11th of September. The weather cooled in early September, not only preserving the acidities, but making life more pleasant for the pickers.
IN THE CAVE
The fruit was in splendid condition, incredibly healthy, with minimal sorting required. The only negative being the yields, which were low again, on similar levels to 2013. The naturally small bunch-set and the dry conditions having both limited the size of the crop. Fermentations were spontaneous and easy. Phenolic maturity was excellent. There were substantial tannins in the reds thanks to thick grape skins, and they were of the highest quality. Due to these high tannin levels, we were cautious with extraction. Punch-downs were few and very gentle. The final alcohol levels were normal, well balanced by the substantial extract and fruit density. There is freshness and poise too. Tartaric acidity was good, with low malic, due to the July heat, meaning malolactic fermentation was generally swift and uncomplicated. The result is a very special vintage which will rank with the very best we have made. The wines are clean, pure and concentrated but above all else, balanced, with high but supple tannins and juicy fruit in the reds. The whites are ripe, yet fresh and taut and will drink beautifully in years to come.