2016 Maison Roche de Bellene Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru

Maison Roche de Bellene was founded by Nicolas Potel in 2008 as the négociant counterpart to Domaine de Bellene. Working through long-standing relationships with growers across Burgundy, the Maison selects fruit from distinguished climats, then vinifies and matures the wines in its own cellars with the aim of preserving the character of each site.

Romanée-Saint-Vivant is one of the six Grand Crus of Vosne-Romanée. In Burgundy, Grand Cru is the highest vineyard classification and belongs to the delimited climat rather than to the estate. The appellation covers less than ten hectares and takes its name from the medieval monastery of Saint-Vivant de Vergy.

The vineyard lies on the lower, east-facing slope of Vosne-Romanée. Its brown limestone soils are rich in clay and reach greater depth than those of many neighbouring climats, extending to roughly 90 centimetres above hard Jurassic Premeaux limestone. This combination supports deep rooting and gives Pinot Noir perfume, texture and exceptional persistence.

In the glass, the wine shows deep ruby colour and a refined bouquet of red cherry, black raspberry, violet and rose, joined by sandalwood, brown spice and forest floor. The palate is concentrated without becoming heavy, with luminous fruit, ripe fine-grained tannins and a long, energetic finish.

Romanée-Saint-Vivant is one of Burgundy’s great expressions of fragrance and texture. This 2016 carries the depth expected of a Grand Cru while retaining the delicacy and inner movement that make the vineyard so highly regarded.

Roast duck or more elaborate preparations, truffle or mushroom pasta or risotto, or aged cheeses.

Serve: 16 °C
Drink: 2026–2050