2021 was a cooler vintage than 2018, 2019 and 2020, with reduced yields and challenges for many growers. Frost hit in early April with overnight temperatures sinking to -8˚C. There was also humidity during the growing season and mildew and rot were a constant threat. However, summer was warm and dry and this allowed what crop remained to ripen well, resulting in fine-boned, aromatic wines. What’s more, Poulleau’s good quality holdings from the three villages that make up their Côte d’Or Rouge ensured they were able to weather the storm. What you first notice on the palate are the modest tannins; it is a slighter wine this year, but they are ripe and succulent and the vibrant fruit character is still abundant with raspberry, redcurrant, cherry and kernel flavours.