Tasting Notes
Lamarche holds 1.35-hectares of vineyards in the Clos de Vougeot, situated over three terroirs: one is at the top of the Clos near the Château (actually there are two small parcels in the area known as Montiotes Hautes); another is in the middle tranche on the Vosne side (Petits Maupertuis): and the remaining parcel is lower down near the RN74 (Baudes Basses). All three parcels are picked at the same time. As you might expect, Nicole Lamarche chooses to vinify a finer, prettier expression of the Clos—very Vosne in style.
Vougeot seldom comes with a structure as lacy and as elegant as this. That said, a terroir can’t completely change its spots, and in the context of this producer you will naturally find more power and more mineral, savoury structure when compared to the other wines listed here. Again, in the context of today’s Grand Cru Burgundy pricing, it's a bargain! - Importer Note
Domaine François Lamarche was renamed Domaine Nicole Lamarche in 2019, and there has been speculation about its future. Due to the Napoleonic Code, the inheritance of traditional Burgundian domaines can be complicated, and Nicole Lamarche's cousin, Nathalie Lamarche, has claimed her share and sold a portion of the vineyards. This change will take effect from the 2022 vintage, leaving Domaine Nicole Lamarche with 5 hectares of prime Vosne terroir, including La Grande Rue. Nicole Lamarche now has full control over the domaine's operations, which she has guided back to prominence in the past decade.
The domaine emphasizes precise organic viticulture, careful cultivation, and low yields to achieve higher quality. Nicole's gentle approach and minimal extraction in the cellar aim to reflect the finesse of Vosne's terroir. The 2020 vintage showcases another exceptional release from this dynamic grower. In a low-yielding year, picking began on August 27th, with outstanding fruit condition and lower sugar levels. Light extraction and gentle pressing resulted in wines with surprising acidity and purity.
Nicole used 10-30% whole bunches and minimal new oak, focusing on preserving finesse. The Premier Crus received 20-30% new oak, while the Grand Crus had a maximum of 30-40%. The domaine has also experimented with low-impact Stockinger barrels and amphorae.
Overall, Nicole Lamarche's actions in the vineyard and cellar aim to enhance the natural finesse that characterizes her wines. These wines achieve a balance of finesse and intensity, making Domaine Nicole Lamarche a destination for those seeking fragrant, lively, and ethereal wines.
| Product Type | Wine Red Pinot Noir |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | France |
| Region | Burgundy |
| Sub Region | Vougeot |
| Winemaking Practices | Minimal Intervention |
| Vineyard Practices | Minimal Intervention |