Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru “Pruliers” 2011, Henri Gouges

The 2011 vintage was not praised widely due to a very warm spring being followed by a drab, rainy summer. Even wines from top domaines like Dujac have an initial chalky nose. However, this aerates away and one often finds good finesse, vibrant pinot fruit and aromatic complexity. This NSG 1er Cru from benchmark producer Henri Gouges is a case in point. Deep red plum colour, it is consistent without bright tints and is semi-opaque. Immediately open nose offering attractive plum, cloves, slate (similar to chalk), vanilla, cherry, braised rhubarb. Continues with green tea, mint, licorice. Really very mercurial. Imbibed this has fresh, tangy, orange and red apple acidity. Red plum flavours wash over the taste buds accompanied by medium plus acidity. Good tannin on the finish. Structured and savoury. Verging on severe. Overall I thought this was a cracking wine but is not for the faint-hearted merlot drinker! Scores 80-84/100.