2022 Domaine de l’Arlot Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Clos des Forêts Saint Georges, Burgundy

The 2022 Nuits Saint-Georges Clos des Forêts Saint Georges 1er Cru was also raised in 40% new oak. [Incidentally, 0.6ha will be planted with Chardonnay in 2024]. Slightly deeper in color compared to the Clos de l'Arlot, this has slightly more cohesion and complexity on the nose: dark cherries and crushed stone, a hint of wilted rose petals in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with beautifully integrated new oak, lending this a velvety veneer. It is a little plush yet with equivalent tension and a detailed, slightly piquant finish. This is an outstanding Nuits Saint-Georges from the Domaine.

94-96 points Neal Martin vinous.com

Domaine de l’Arlot Nuits Saint Georges Premier Cru Clos des Forêts Saint Georges is a powerful yet refined expression of Pinot Noir from one of the most historic and complete monopoles in the Côte de Nuits. Owned entirely by Domaine de l’Arlot, this walled vineyard spans nearly eight hectares, making it one of the largest and most significant premier cru monopoles in Burgundy. It produces a wine of remarkable depth, energy, and structure—one that reflects both the muscular character of Nuits Saint Georges and the domaine’s signature finesse.

Clos des Forêts sits on the southern side of the appellation, near Premeaux-Prissey, with a diverse mix of clay and limestone soils that deliver natural complexity and layering. The site includes three distinct soil zones, which together create a wine that is both broad and precise, with dark fruit, floral lift, and mineral tension.

Domaine de l’Arlot has farmed this vineyard biodynamically for years, and under the guidance of winemaker Géraldine Godot, the expression of terroir is clearer than ever. The grapes are handpicked, often with a significant proportion of whole bunches included in the fermentation to bring aromatic lift, structure, and vibrancy. Ageing takes place in French oak, with a careful balance of new and seasoned barrels to enhance texture without overshadowing the wine’s natural intensity.

In the glass, Clos des Forêts Saint Georges opens with aromas of blackberry, black cherry, violet, crushed herbs, and subtle earth and spice. The palate is structured and full bodied yet elegant, with dark fruit, savoury elements, fine chalky tannins, and a long, persistent finish that reveals floral and mineral complexity over time. It is a wine that benefits from ageing and will reward 10 to 20 years in the cellar.

Pair it with roasted game, duck confit, or truffle infused dishes, and you’ll experience a wine that perfectly bridges power and finesse—an icon of Nuits Saint Georges and one of the most complete expressions of Pinot Noir in the appellation.