Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits 2008, François Lamarche

The François Lamarche domaine is located in Vosne-Romanée and owns the monopoly control over La Grande Rue, a tiny sliver of vineyards next to Romanée-Conti. The Bourgoblog team tasted here in the very warm spring of 2011 and enjoyed some wines from the tank and the bottle. I am uncertain of how the Bevan-Chua scale which provides a scientific analysis of the impact of vessel volume and material on a wine's evolution applies to large stainless steel vats. More research required. Onto the wine, this is a great example of the rustic spiciness and high-toned berries which can be found in typical HCdN wines. Orange rind and a touch of rhubarb. Medium weight, mature yet rustic tannins but thankfully no sign of twigs or capsicum which can mark 2008s from less well exposed or higher altitudes. Juste comme il faut. Scores 24/30 for a HCdN rouge.