2014 Henri Gouges Nuits-St-Georges Pruliers

The 2014 Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru les Pruliers was showing more fruit intensity on the nose than the Porrets, the fruit more black, perhaps a little more oaky than others (although Gregory Gouges told me that this probably derives from the wooden vat after racking). The palate is very harmonious in the mouth. There are supple tannins and good density here with silky textured, sorbet-like freshness on the finish. This is a lovely wine from Gouges, one of their best in this vintage. 92-94 points

(a 2 ha parcel with a mix of 80% 75+ year old vines and the remainder of 15 to 20 year old vines). A subtle application of wood frames the spicy red and dark berry fruit that is liberally laced by notes of earth and game. I very much like the intensity and focused power of the concentrated medium weight flavors that display moderate rusticity and a touch of austerity on the impressively complex and persistent finale. Patience required. 90-93 points

Made up of two parcels, both close to the town of Nuits-St-Georges, this 1.8 hectare holding is 50 years old. Dense and deeply coloured, it’s a brooding, firmly structured wine with richness, concentration, savoury black fruits and muscular, well integrated tannins. Drink 2020-30. 95 points