2020 - Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de l'Arlot

The 2020 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru has an expressive bouquet with fine delineation, redcurrant and raspberry fruit, hints of candied orange peel and just a little camphor. Yet there is a discreetness that I admire, and it unfolds wonderfully in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red fruit, nicely detailed, fresh and marine-influenced. It is very harmonious; there's a very grandiose finish that lingers seductively. One of the best wines that I have ever tasted from the Domaine. Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting.

Offering up aromas of cherries, cassis, sweet spices, rose petals and loamy soil, the 2020 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru is full-bodied, rich and concentrated, with an ample, layered mid-palate that only partially conceals an imposing chassis of rich, chewy tannins.

Cask sample. Real grit and interest here on the nose but very marked tannins, and acidity, on the palate. I think it will all fall into place but I wouldn't risk my own money on it. Ambitious certainly and there is no shortage of life on the palate. Well-grown fruit! Let's give it the benefit of the doubt... (JR)