Romanée Saint Vivant Grand Cru 2016

750ml

Overview

The Domaine Follin Arbelet Romanée Saint Vivant Grand Cru 2016 is a breathtaking expression of Pinot Noir from one of the most esteemed vineyards in Burgundy. Located in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, Romanée Saint Vivant is known for its exceptional terroir, producing wines of unparalleled elegance and complexity. The 2016 vintage of this Grand Cru is an outstanding example of the domain’s dedication to biodynamic viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking. This wine reveals the rich potential of the terroir, offering an exceptional balance between power, finesse, and aging potential.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a traditional fermentation process with natural yeasts. The fermentation takes place in small open-top vats to ensure a delicate extraction of the fruit’s flavors.
• Maceration: A long maceration period is employed, allowing for a deep extraction of color, tannins, and aromatics, while retaining the elegance of the wine.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, with approximately 40–50% of the barrels being new. Aging lasts for about 18 months, during which the wine undergoes regular racking to help clarify the wine and promote integration of the oak influence.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine has a deep ruby color, with a slightly translucent rim, indicative of its youth and clarity.
• Aroma: On the nose, the wine is incredibly complex, offering a bouquet of dark fruits such as blackberries, raspberries, and cherries, complemented by floral notes of violet and rose. Subtle earthy undertones of wet stone, truffle, and forest floor add depth, while a touch of oak spice and vanilla completes the aromatic profile.
• Palate: On the palate, Romanée Saint Vivant Grand Cru 2016 is medium to full-bodied, with a silky texture and beautifully integrated tannins. The fruit profile is rich and vibrant, with flavors of ripe red and black fruits, including cherry, raspberry, and blackberry, balanced by savory notes of spice and a hint of smoke. The wine’s acidity is well-structured, providing freshness and focus.
• Finish: The finish is long, smooth, and persistent, with a fine minerality that lingers on the palate. The delicate tannins and fresh acidity ensure a refined and elegant conclusion, making this wine a true expression of the exceptional terroir of Romanée Saint Vivant.

Food Pairing

Domaine Follin Arbelet Romanée Saint Vivant Grand Cru 2016 pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, especially those with rich, earthy flavors. It complements roast game birds such as quail and pheasant, as well as lamb and beef tenderloin. Rich, flavorful dishes like mushroom risotto, coq au vin, and duck confit also pair wonderfully with this wine. For cheese, enjoy it with soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or a well-aged Gruyère.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (61–64°F) to bring out the full complexity and aroma of the wine.
• Glassware: Use Burgundy wine glasses with a large bowl to allow the wine to breathe and express its bouquet fully.

Aging Potential

This wine has remarkable aging potential, with the structure and acidity to evolve beautifully over the next 10–20 years. Over time, the fruit flavors will integrate more seamlessly with the earthy, tertiary notes, resulting in a wine of greater complexity and refinement. It is a true collector’s wine that will reward those who choose to cellar it.