Clos Frantin (Bichot) Vosne-Romanée 1er cru Malconsorts 2018 1.5L

97 points Decanter: "Sleek floral aromas lead to a powerhouse of stewed cherries and plums and delicious toasty oak and spice; with a succulent texture, enriching tannins and a black cherry acidity; long and complex. Alcohol 13.5%. (DWWA 2020)"

95 points/'Cellar Selection,' Anne Krebiehl, MW (Wine Enthusiast): "Red cherry and a touch of smoke are subdued on the wine's shy nose. The palate is equally restrained, concentrated but with depth that has inherent grace. Firm tannins still crunch, but every crackle of that sinuous texture holds more perfume and more cherry. The body is taut tand toned. All is framed with freshness and will only get better over the years. Drink by 2050. Alcohol 13.5%. (Dec 2020)"

92-95 points Jasper Morris, MW: "There is a massively deep purple colour to this Malconsorts, with bundles of energetic red fruit on the nose. The palate too demonstrates this, some orange zest, otherwise entirely red fruit, no black notes, good acidity and the persistence of a grand cru. (Nov 2019)"

92-94 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The 2018 Vosne-Romanée Les Malconsorts 1er Cru comes from Bichot’s substantial 1.75-hectare holding, handpicked on September 11 and made with 40% whole bunch and 45% new oak. This has a high-class bouquet of pure red cherries, cranberry and wild strawberry scents, hints of rose petal and orange blossom emerging with time. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp red berry fruit and a frame of quite firm tannins that should guarantee the longevity of this Malconsorts. It feels a little aloof on the finish, but it just needs time to soften its edges. Drink: 2024-2045. (Jan 2020)"

93 points Tim Atkin, MW.

Bill Nanson (Burgundy Report): "1.75 ha from 6 sandier parts and lower down heavier soil – the bottom left which is more sandy and the rest which is more clay – there can be 3 days difference in maturity between these two sectors – ‘clearly different wines too, the lower part more massive less complex.’ The only area in 2017 where they did a green harvest. All harvested 9 September despite the differing soil types. Less depth of aroma but much more width and complexity. More zip of freshness and energy – ooh this is a bundle of energy. Dynamic, complex – brilliant finishing – bravo! (Dec 2019)"