2020 Olivier Leflaive Bourgogne Rouge Cuvée Margot, Burgundy

Cuvée Margot is Olivier Leflaive’s take on Bourgogne Rouge with a bit more intent, sourcing from well chosen parcels across the Côte d’Or to deliver something that feels a step above the category. While the house is better known for white Burgundy, the same precision carries through here, aiming for purity of Pinot Noir rather than weight.

The 2020 vintage brings both ripeness and clarity. Aromatics are open and inviting, red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry, with a gentle floral lift of rose petal and a hint of violet. There is a subtle savoury edge building underneath, a touch of spice, soft earth and a whisper of oak.

On the palate it sits in the light to medium bodied range, with silky tannins and a smooth, flowing texture. The fruit is generous but well defined, supported by a line of freshness that keeps everything balanced. Flavours move into more savoury territory on the finish, with a lightly spiced, earthy note lingering.

Olivier Leflaive’s approach is measured, careful extraction and restrained oak, resulting in a wine that feels polished while still expressing Pinot Noir’s delicacy.

This is a great match for dishes that play on finesse rather than weight. Think duck with cherry, roast chicken with herbs, or even a grilled tuna steak with sesame. It also works beautifully with lighter vegetarian dishes like mushroom and thyme tart, lentil and herb salad, or a simple tomato and olive dish, where the wine’s freshness and subtle savoury notes shine.

Drinking beautifully now, it will continue to hold over the next five to eight years, developing a little more earthy complexity while keeping its charm.