Tasting Notes
The 1.65-hectare of La Grande Rue dates back to the 15th century and takes its name from the small road bordering the vineyard as it climbs above the town. The vineyard is enviably situated, directly bordering La Tâche to the south (it is the continuation of this vineyard) and La Romanée-Conti, La Romanée and Romanée-Saint-Vivant to the north (across a small road). It can be thought of as a prettier, more delicate (and somewhat more delicately priced) version of La Tâche*. The site first came into Lamarche hands in 1933 and has been a monopole for the family ever since. After La Romanée, La Grande Rue is the smallest of the Vosne Grand Crus. - 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 | Vosne Romanee |
| Winemaking Practices | Minimal Intervention |
| Vineyard Practices | Minimal Intervention |