On the lower part of Côte D’Or’sVosne-Romanée slopelies Romanee-Saint-Vivant, a 22-acre grand cru vineyard which is almost as notable for its aromatic breezes as it is its grapes. Like many other vineyards, estates and chateaux, it took its name from the order of monks that originally owned it, in this case, L’Abbeye de Saint-Vivant.

Due to its location and position, the soils found at Romanée-Saint-Vivant are quite different from others in Vosne-Romanée. It has basically acted as a repository for other soils and materials subjected to rain, wind and gravity, giving it a deep topsoil and higher presence of clay.

These differences also account for the wines that come from the land –they are lighter, more delicate and while understated in reputation, are extremely well-liked by wine drinkers with a penchant for more subtle Pinot Noir offerings. Top Producers: Sylvain Cathiard, Jean-Jacques Confuron