The 2020 Domaine Roulot Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru is a meticulously crafted Pinot Noir hailing from the esteemed Burgundy region in France, specifically the Cote de Beaune sub-region. Produced by Domaine Roulot, this red wine exemplifies the elegant character and finesse typical of Burgundy Pinot Noir.
This vintage has garnered significant praise from professional reviewers. Decanter awarded it a notable score of 93 points, highlighting its "perfumed cherry fruit, with floral notes and a perfect purity of fruit." The review further describes the wine's texture as "supple and round," indicating a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. This wine is crafted from a blend of the lieux-dits Bas de Duresses and Grand Champs, using grapes that are partially destemmed (30% whole-cluster) and fermented with careful extraction. The ageing process takes place in mostly used casks, which helps to preserve the wine's nuanced flavors and aromas.
Winemaker Paul Delorme's approach to the winemaking process is succinctly summarized in Decanter's review: "All the work is in the fermentation, after that it's done, contrary to the whites." This statement underscores the importance of the fermentation process in developing the wine's character and complexity.
With an alcohol content of 13.5%, this wine strikes a balanced profile that is neither too bold nor too light. The suggested drinking window for optimal enjoyment is between 2025 and 2040, allowing ample time for the wine to develop further complexity and depth.
In summary, the 2020 Domaine Roulot Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru is a highly regarded Pinot Noir that offers a harmonious blend of cherry fruit and floral notes, coupled with a supple texture. Its careful production process and aging potential make it a noteworthy choice for enthusiasts of Burgundy wines.