2008 Alain Hudelot-Noellat, Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru

The 2008 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru has a fragrant, leafy, sous-bois -tinged bouquet that takes time to unfurl in the glass. I appreciate the focus and delineation of this Grand Cru. The palate is beautifully knit together with filigree tannins. It has much more depth than the Premier Crus, with a satin-like texture. It's not persistent but very elegant, with a long residual pepperiness on the tongue. Classy and à point . Tasted at Stannery Wines' producer tasting in London.

Medium red. Musky, soil-driven aromas of mocha, licorice, spices, soy sauce and flowers. Sweet, plush, rich and very ripe, but with plenty of energy to the cocoa powder, loam and spice flavors. The impressive, slowly building finish shows a distinctly saline character and a positive dryness. A fascinating wine of terroir , in need of patience.