From bud break to harvest, the 2020 vintage can be caracterized by its significant advancement compared to other vintages. Winter was relatively mild with one icy episode in February. In mid-March, France entered its first lockdown and the sun settled in. The warm peaks of the summer and the decrease in rainfall put a slight stress on the vines, however in a heterogeneous way. Once again, reflecting the reality of climate change but yet also the diversity of Burgundy’s terroirs. Ultimately, as we expected, the vintage was very generous. The harvest started on August 20 in Volnay and Pommard.
The reds deliver a crunchy freshness with a complexity and density from the dark red fruits which are accompanied by spicy and floral notes. Ripe and concentrated with particularly silky tanins, these generous and harmonious wines will be accessible young and though they’re also tailored for cellaring. Again this year, we could afford to work with a high proportion of whole clusters thanks to the quality of the grapes. If you can, we advise you keep these wines for about 10 years to enjoy them when they’ve had time to open up with grace.

The 2020 Beaune Les Perrières 1er Cru is matured with one-third whole cluster and went through a late malolactic. The whole cluster is quite expressive here, peppery and quite vibrant, a light marine influence coming through. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins, very well balanced, fine backbone with a lightly spiced finish. This has real character and terroir expression. (Score : 91-93 – Drink time : 2023-2040, neal Martin, Vinous, December 2021)