Domaine Robert Arnoux is a 12 hectare property run by Pascal Lachaux who took over from his father-in-law, Robert Arnoux, in 1995. Although always good, the quality of this domaine’s wines has soared during the last 8 years under Pascal’s tenure.
Pascal has initiated a policy of no fining or filtering, and an organic and biodynamic approach (he racks when the moon’s descending, weeds when it’s rising). Any damaged or unripe fruit is dropped from the vines before harvesting. The grapes are destemmed then fermented with pumping over and splashing (délestage) rather than punching down, so as not to damage the pips. The village wines receive 35% new wood, 50-60% for 1ers crus and 100% for the top cuvées.
These are concentrated, polished and highly sought-after wines. The name of the Domaine has been changed to Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux.
94 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The medium to dark ruby-colored 1999 Clos Vougeot, produced from 35-40 hectoliters per hectare yields, has a superb nose of super-ripe cherries, Asian spices, violets, and perfume. It is medium-bodied, sexy, and opulent. Copious quantities of sur-maturite-laced cherries, raspberries, and strawberries can be found throughout this sweet, penetrating, and lively wine. It has no hard edges to its seamless, full-flavored character.