The 2019 Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru is superb, wafting from the glass with aromas of plums, cassis, exotic spices, dark chocolate and rose petals, framed by a deft application of new oak. Full-bodied, sumptuous and enveloping, it's deep and concentrated, with lively acids, broad structural shoulders and a long, perfumed finish. I deferred my tasting with Charles Van Canneyt until as late as possible, as he told me that several protracted malolactic fermentations had only just concluded by the end of harvest 2020. The wines were worth the wait, however, as this is a terrific success for Domaine Hudelot-Noellat. Rich, dramatic and concentrated, with vibrant fruit tones and ripe tannins, everything reviewed here comes recommended. Yields were low, and alcohol levels range between 13.5% and 14.5%, but the wines are more dynamic than their 2018 counterparts (which a packed schedule precluded me from revisiting on this occasion, something I'll endeavor to remedy before too long).

The 2019 Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru, matured in around 50% new oak, has an enthralling, pure black cherry, cassis, crushed violet and blood orange bouquet that soars from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannins. Opulent and showy; hints of licorice and mint suffuse the intense finish. It closes up a little toward the finish, but this is a magnificent Romanee-Saint-Vivant that should age over the next 30–40 years.

A brooding and reluctant nose is comprised by notes of freshly sliced plum, red cherry, soy, hoisin and discreet hints of sandalwood. There is excellent power and intensity to the focused and beautifully textured, indeed even silky, medium weight flavors that deliver outstanding depth and persistence on the impeccably well-balanced and youthfully austere finish. This wonderfully refined effort is at once classy yet impressively punchy and is a wine that should age effortlessly. *Burghound Don't Miss!!*

This 0.48ha parcel planted in 1920 is one of the jewels of the estate and is located between Liger-Belair and Jean Mongeard. In 2019, these vines have delivered fruit of superb intensity, with marvellous, fresh blackberry fruit, hints of violets and a savoury edge. On the palate there is impressive density, concentration and a straight line of tannic structure that leads it to a lingering finish. Drinking Window 2024 - 2049.