Not surprisingly, the 1999 was almost exactly like the review that appeared in Issue 6 except that the finish is displaying a bit more tannic structure. Otherwise, the original view is spot on: Spice and very dark fruits with a wonderful mouth feel of velvet and buried dusty tannins. Despite the velvet, there is a much more structured quality to the ‘99 than the '00 with the same notes of torrefaction on the nose yet more elegance and Vosne spice as well. Comes across much like a mini-Richebourg but with less size and intensity. Quite impressively detailed and a wine that should live for a long time.

The impressive 1999 Vosne-Romanee Les Petits Monts reveals blackberries, cherries and minerals in its aromatics. It has excellent to outstanding density of fruit in its long, lush, chewy personality. Medium to full-bodied and packed with assorted red and black fruits, it also reveals hints of toasted oak in its appealing finish. Importer: Dreyfus Ashby, New York, NY; tel. (212) 818-0770.