Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits 2007, A F Gros

Regular readers of "Le Burgoblog" will know that for many years I have been enjoying the wines from Domaine A F Gros / Domaine Parent. Indeed, even this humble Hautes-Côtes has been covered in the glamorous pages of this blog in the 2005 and 2006 vintages. This pinot from the "high slope" (I think "high plains" would be more appropriate) above the Côte de Nuits has an impressive dark cherry colour which is highly reflective. The aromas remind me of a sprawl of blackberries near Hampden House in the Chiltern hills which I plucked bare having got lost on a long walk. As you see in the photograph, there are ripe berries and unripe berries. Blood orange and licorice also on the nose. And this is characteristic of the 2007 vintage: a very warm spring followed by a dreary summer. The palate has really good concentration for an Hautes-Côtes with good tannins, a slightly chalky texture and plum fruit. An enjoyable wine that is more savoury and fresh than the uninitiated would like. Scores 19-22 / 30 for a Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes.