Bourgogne Rouge 2020
Domaine de la Vougeraie · Burgundy, France
At a glance
- Producer
- Domaine de la Vougeraie
- Region
- Burgundy, France
- Grape variety
- Pinot Noir
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Fruity
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $35-45 USD per 750ml bottle (as of 2024)
Tasting profile
Red cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, subtle violet and rose petal aromas, with hints of earth and gentle spice. Palate is light- to medium-bodied with juicy red fruit, lively acidity, and fresh minerality.
Evolution: With age, primary fruit will soften, bringing more savory notes of underbrush, dried herbs, forest floor, and nuanced spice. The palate gains silkiness and complexity.
At peak: At peak (2025-2028), expect harmonious integration of fruit, florals, subtle earthiness, and supple tannins. The wine will show layered aromatics, balanced freshness, and an elegant, persistent finish.
Structure
- Acidity
- Bright, classic Burgundian acidity; supporting freshness and future development
- Tannins
- Fine-grained, moderate; currently softening but still provide structure
- Alcohol
- Well-integrated (~13%), balanced with no overpowering heat
- Aging potential
- 5-8 years from vintage
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2028 to 2045
- Optimal window
- 2025 to 2048
- Current status
- Ready to drink
- Current condition
- Vibrant, youthful fruit with refined tannins and good freshness
The 2025-2028 window is considered peak due to optimal integration of ripe fruit, resolved tannins, and evolving tertiary notes. Early drinking showcases fruit-forward energy, while this peak period allows for full aromatic and textural complexity. After 2028-2029, the wine's delicacy and vibrant fruit may fade, and subtlety may become predominant, moving toward a lighter, less expressive profile.
Food pairing
Pairs well with classic Burgundian dishes like coq au vin, duck breast, roast chicken, and mushroom risotto. At peak, richer poultry and game birds, pork tenderloin with cherry sauce, or grilled salmon are ideal. As the wine evolves, pairings with earthier flavors—like truffle pasta or lentil stew—will highlight its developing complexity.
Serving
- Decant
- Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has fine-grained, moderate tannins that are currently softening, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its aromas and flavors.
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 9/10
Biodynamic viticulture, horse-plowing, natural treatments, hand-harvesting, minimal intervention in winery
Domaine de la Vougeraie is an industry leader in sustainability, pioneering biodynamic and organic practices in Burgundy. Their commitment not only enhances vineyard health and biodiversity but represents a significant reduction in environmental impact compared to conventional viticulture.