Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits 2006, A-F Gros

Pinots from the Hautes-Côtes can be tremendous value in warm years like 2006, 2005, 2003 and more recently 2009. In cool years like 2004 and to a lesser extent 2008 they are more risky. This pinot from the hills above the Côte de Nuits is about as good as the appellation can achieve. Blood orange, pencil lead, cherry stones and cassis on the nose. Super cherry and plum flavours intermingled with high altitude bushy tannins -- like chewing licorice root. Ideal with a rustic lamb casserole. At the peak of its powers now. A real cracker. Photo shows guyot trained vines in the Hautes Côtes.