2023 Sylvain Pataille - Marsannay Clos du Roy (750ml) [PRE ARRIVAL]

Sylvain Pataille established his domaine in Marsannay in 1999, starting with a single hectare and building it into fifteen hectares farmed biodynamically across this often overlooked appellation. Trained in oenology and viticultural consulting before turning his focus fully to winemaking, Pataille has become a driving force behind the region's renewed reputation, coaxing genuine depth and precision from both Pinot Noir and Aligoté. Long regarded as merely a gateway to the Côte de Nuits, Marsannay under his direction has emerged as one of Burgundy's most closely watched appellations, and Pataille is often credited with proving its top sites can rival more famous neighbors.

Clos du Roy is one of Marsannay's most historic parcels, its name derived from the Duke of Burgundy's lands being annexed to the French crown in 1477. The vineyard sits on a moderate east to southeast facing slope at 270 meters, with gravelly, iron rich soil locally known as Rabbit Earth. Vines here date back as far as 1952, with additional plantings through the 2000s, and are farmed under certified organic and biodynamic methods. Vinification uses 100 percent whole cluster fermentation with ambient yeast, followed by eighteen months in barrel and further time settling in stainless steel before bottling with minimal sulfur.

The 2023 shows dark cherry and bilberry fruit intertwined with wild herbs and a mineral, crushed rock character, the stems integrating seamlessly into the fruit. Fine, precise tannins give the palate real definition, carrying through to a long, intense finish built for extended cellaring. It pairs naturally with roast duck, braised game, or a rich mushroom based dish.