by Giles Cadman
Domaine Jean Grivot is considered to be one of the outstanding producers of classic red Burgundy. The estate owns vineyards spread over fifteen appellations throughout the region, but is particularly well known for its Richebourg and Clos Vougeot Grand Cru wines, among others. They have a reputation for drinking well young, but also for their ability to age exceptionally well.
“The wines produced by the scholarly looking Jean Grivot and his son Étienne range from very good to exhilarating.” Robert Parker
The Clos de Vougeot was acquired in 1919 by Étienne’s grandfather and is typically a full, powerful wine which tends to peak after about 10 years at which point it is a generous style with hints of truffle and violet. Étienne practices a gentle and non-intrusive Burgundian winemaking style, believing that dense planting for small crops fully expresses the character of his full, rich Pinot Noir fruit.
It is in Burgundy, as much as, if not more than anywhere else in the world that the concept of terroir is of central importance. Wine is an expression of place, and no appellations or grape varieties seem to do so more brilliantly than those of this region.
The 2001 Clos Vougeot Grand Cru is no exception. It exhibits lovely cherry fruit, earth, eastern spice, truffle and floral notes supported by a mineral backbone. The fruit is well supported on the palate by a firm tannic structure and keen acidity, resulting in excellent all-round balance. Floral aromatics linger on the finish, completing a lovely elegant wine.
Cadman Fine Wines have Domaine Jean Grivot, Clos Vougeot Grand Cru, 2001 available at £75.00 a bottle or £450.00 a case of six.
