Surprisingly forward and accessible, the 2011 RSV features pomegranate and black plum fruit aromas with hints of rose petals, fresh leather, and spice. The texture is silky and seductive, with plenty of breadth but no sensation of heaviness and no tart or bitter notes. This bottle confirms the trend of the improvement of RSV within the DRC portfolio in recent years. This wine seems ready to drink, yet it still has excellent potential for future development. Picked 8-9 September; 13,971 bottles produced.

This is certainly one of, if not the, most floral wine in the range in 2011 with the possible exception of the Richebourg. The extraordinarily elegant and airy nose is positively kaleidoscopic in its sheer breadth of spice elements that combine with the stunningly pure red and black raspberry fruit aromas that are liberally laced with rose petal nuances. The lacy, intense and beautifully precise middle weight flavors are harmonious and impeccably well-balanced on the fabulously long and silky finish where a touch of youthful asperity is present. This should be terrific in time.

The Romanee-Saint-Vivant was picked on 8 and 9 September at 24.7hl/ha. Now this has a very interesting bouquet, quite distinct from the Richebourg and the Grands Echezeaux. It is much more exuberant and lifted, very perfumed with fresh strawberry, red cherries, dried rose petals and a touch of quince. This is so lively and vivacious, as if it borrowed some of the succulence from the 2009 vintage. The palate is quite precocious on the entry, the mouth instantaneously tingling with glee. There is a beautiful crescendo before fanning out towards its silky caressing finish. There is something playful and joyous about this Romanee-Saint-Vivant, carefree and alluring, a wine to be enjoyed as much as respected. 1,164 cases produced. Drink 2016-2035. - Neal Martin