Maxime Cheurlin's Noellat Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2020 captivates with its sensual fusion of terroir, craftsmanship, and maturity. From the renowned Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru vineyard, this wine's elegance draws from Burgundian tradition, complemented by meticulous barrel aging. The Noellat estate is committed to a respectful partnership between nature and humankind, with harvesting, sorting, and aging carried out with minimal intervention. The 2020 vintage delivers substance, freshness, and fine tannins – a combination praised by critics such as Falstaff, Parker, Jancis Robinson, Jeff Leve, and Wine Spectator.
The nose immediately reveals aromas of red cherry, sour cherry, and plum, underscored by mineral notes and a hint of forest floor. On the palate, the wine displays a silky texture, powerful fruit, elegant pepper, and a saline minerality reminiscent of the stony terroir. The complexity increases with aeration: notes of leather, cocoa, and vanilla from barrel aging complement the concentrated fruit without overpowering it. The balance between depth and finesse makes this a Burgundy with lasting aging potential.
The optimal drinking window is expected to be reached from approximately 2028–2034, although the wine will continue to open up with proper storage. Recommended food pairings include pepper-crusted beef fillet or roasted venison or lamb dishes, accompanied by mature cheeses – combinations that perfectly complement the structure and fruit of the Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru.