Etymology: from the verb brûler, to burn. This is possibly a reference to the brushwood that existed in the combe, that had to be cleared to plant the vineyards. Or it could come from the feeling of heat at the location under a hot sun, especially in the parcels at the top of the slope that face full south and that are protected from the wind. (Source: Marie-Hélène Landrieu-Lussigny).
Size: 0.27 ha (0.67 ac)
Variety: Pinot Noir
Vine Age: Planted in 1939 and 1944
Terroir: Aux Brulées sits on both flanks of a combe with the particularity that almost half of the vineyard faces north and another almost-half faces south. (The unaccounted part faces east.) Pascal has two north-facing parcels. The soils are very shallow, approximately 20 cm deep, and sit over fractured bedrock. It is an incredibly difficult vineyard to plant posts in.
Viticulture: Uncertified biodynamic
Vinification: 60% whole cluster, ambient yeast ferment. Aged in oak barrels (25% new) for 12 to 18 months. Since 2016, very moderate sulfur additions: none during vinification, a little during élevage and before bottling, for a total of 15 to 20 ppm. beckywasserman
"The 2023 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru Aux Brûlées reveals aromas of raspberries and cherries mingled with orange zest and violets. Medium to full-bodied, creamy and layered, it's deep and dense, with a cool core of fruit, terrific purity and a penetrating finish." Wine Advocate 93-95p
"A lively ruby purple. The nose is not as forthcoming as some, nor the palate quite as concentrated, with some drier wood tannins behind. A little bit of the singed stone character of Brûlées alongside a complex array of red and black fruits. Just a little bit in reserve at the moment. 80% whole bunch vinification is rather hidden which indicates a density of fruit remaining to be discovered. This will get a longer elevage, and may easily grow from this assessment. Drink from 2030-2038. Tasted Nov 2024." Jasper Morris 92-95p
