At a glance

Producer

Sylvain Cathiard

Region

Vosne-Romanée, Burgundy, France

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$120-$180

Tasting profile

Red cherry, raspberry, subtle floral violet notes, underpinned by earth, forest floor and savory spice

Evolution: Will develop secondary aromas of dried herbs, game, truffle and complex earthiness with bottle age

At peak: Expect vibrant fruit balanced with elegant minerality, silky tannins and long refined finish at peak

Structure

Acidity

Bright, balanced acidity characteristic of Vosne-Romanée Pinot Noir

Tannins

Fine-grained, moderate to firm tannins

Alcohol

13.0% ABV

Aging potential

Excellent, recommended cellaring up to 20+ years from vintage due to producer quality and terroir

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2041

Optimal window

2023 to 2044

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking phase

Current condition

The wine is developing complexity with primary fruit notes maturing, tannins softening yet maintaining good structure.

Sylvain Cathiard is a highly respected Vosne-Romanée producer whose 2016 vintage benefits from excellent growing conditions. The wine displays classic finesse and structure that will reward extended aging, with peak drinking expected 7-15 years after vintage before entering mature plateau phase.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with duck breast, roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, game birds, and mild soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To open up bouquet and soften tannins for youthful expressions

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Sylvain Cathiard employs traditional low-intervention viticulture focused on minimizing chemical treatments, encouraging soil health and biodiversity.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, the producer applies thoughtful, sustainable vineyard and cellar practices aimed at preserving terroir and minimizing environmental impact. The carbon footprint is average for Burgundy imports, with usual shipping and packaging considerations.