2019 Alain Hudelot-Noellat - Bourgogne Rouge (pre arrival)

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate says of the 2019 Hudelot-Noellat: "The 2019 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru is also very promising, mingling aromas of cherries, earthy wild berries, rose petals and spices in an incipiently complex mélange. Full-bodied, rich and layered, it's elegantly muscular and built for the long haul, its enveloping core of fruit largely concealing serious reserves of fine, powdery tannins. I deferred my tasting with Charles Van Canneyt until as late as possible, as he told me that several protracted malolactic fermentations had only just concluded by the end of harvest 2020. The wines were worth the wait, however, as this is a terrific success for Domaine Hudelot-Noëllat. Rich, dramatic and concentrated, with vibrant fruit tones and ripe tannins, everything reviewed here comes recommended. Yields were low, and alcohol levels range between 13.5% and 14.5%, but the wines are more dynamic than their 2018 counterparts (which a packed schedule precluded me from revisiting on this occasion, something I'll endeavor to remedy before too long). (WK) 93-95+"