2020 Domaine Sylvain Cathiard Vosne-Romanée En Orveaux 1er Cru

The 2020 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru En Orveaux had only recently finished its malolactic fermentation, so it was one of the more reserved wines in the cellar when I visited. Unfurling in the glass with notes of cherries, wild berries, sweet spices, orange rind and burning embers, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with lively acids and fine but firm tannins that will likely soften with further élevage.

The 2020 Vosne-Romanée En Orveaux 1er Cru, which is exposed to the northwest, has a well-defined bouquet with more mineralité than the Aux Reignots - more terroir expression here with pure black cherry and cassis fruit laced with pressed violets. The palate is medium-bodied with fine structure, gentle grip, a touch of spice towards the finish that leaves with a trace of white pepper in the mouth. Very fine.