Description
Elegant, structured red Burgundy from Domaine de l’Arlot and one of Nuits-Saint-Georges’ most famous Premier Cru vineyards: Clos des Forets Saint Georges (this is a ‘monopole’ vineyard ie with just one lucky owner, Domaine de l’Arlot!). This 2006 vintage shows the depth of flavour that comes with the combination of time and great Pinot Noir. It complex, layered, gamey character is a delight; perfect for lovers of Cru Burgundy who like to drink and enjoy their wine rather than tuck it away in the cellar.
TASTING NOTE: This Premier Cru has a light, brick-red colour, pointing to an aged wine with mellow, tertiary perfume rather than the primary fruits of youth. The nose is expressive with truffle, game, earthy and umami notes, and a hint of raspberry. On the palate, it is elegant with great balance of savoury flavours, the dry, crisp structure of great Pinot Noir and satisfyingly complex, forest floor, compote and truffle notes. The tannins are silky and well-integrated, and its drinking beautifully now, with 13.5% alcohol. A rare treat to have this combination of maturity and quality in half bottle.
FOOD PAIRING, STORING AND SERVICE: This is a food-friendly Burgundy, with classic freshness of Pinot Noir and medium alcohol. It’s a mature wine though, and delicate compared to the richer, younger wines of recent warm vintages in Burgundy. So, it’s best with simpler meat dishes (roast chicken, turkey or duck), along with mushroom risotto, or medium-aged cheeses, rather than very heavy or spiced dishes. Decant prior to serving, this doesn’t need to aerate as it’s lovely, expressive and complex as it is. Drink now or keep for the next 2-4 years if you are extremely patient, but it doesn’t demand further ageing!
ABOUT: Domaine de l’Arlot is a historic Burgundy estate, known for its biodynamic practices and meticulous winemaking. It’s owned by Axa, the insurance company, but the winemaking is entirely separate from Axa’s other properties (mostly in Bordeaux), and since 2003 they have followed both organic and biodynamic winegrowing practices, resulting in wonderfully aromatic, expressive Burgundies. The Clos des Forêts Saint Georges is their flagship monopole, the vineyard that they are lucky enough to own in its entirety. It’s a sheltered, walled vineyard that is rated by many as a possible Grand Cru, should the appellation rules be changed. The wines tend to be richly fruity in youth from fairly deep clay soils, and very ageworthy, as this wine can attest!
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