2023 Domaine Faiveley - Mercurey Le Clos du Roy (750ml)
The Vineyard & History
This small parcel, known as a clos, formerly belonged to the Kings of France. It was considered one of the appellation's best parcels and was purchased by the Faiveley family in 1971. The 2.54-hectare plot, planted in 1971 and 1982, sits on clay-limestone and white marl soils with a south and southwest exposure, and is farmed organically.
The Wine
- Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
- Aging: 15 months in French oak barrels, 30% new oak. Alcohol: 13%.
Tasting Notes
Subtle aromas of small black and red fruits mingle elegantly with woody and smoky notes. On the palate, the wine coats with velvety tannins, offering a smooth, warm, and harmonious experience.
Style & Benchmarking
This wine could be compared to a Côte de Nuits village in terms of its delicate tannins and length on the palate — high praise for a Côte Chalonnaise appellation. Since 2007, the wines have been made in a much fresher and fruitier style, yet still with real intensity, thanks to changes in cooperage (now using François Frères, Taransaud, and others).
Overall
A solid, elegant Burgundy Premier Cru at a more accessible price point than Côte d'Or equivalents. The 2023 vintage in Burgundy was generally characterized by freshness and good aromatic expression, making this a wine you can enjoy relatively young or cellar for several years.