Domaine Ponsot : Clos de la Roche Grand cru "Cuvée Vieilles Vignes" 2023

Characteristics and Tasting Notes for the Clos de la Roche Grand Cru "Cuvée Vieilles Vignes" 2023 Domaine Ponsot

Tasting

Colour
Red in colour, the wine reveals an imperial purple hue, both deep and vibrant, reflecting impressive depth.

Nose
Initially somewhat reserved, the bouquet unfolds in successive layers. It exudes pure aromas of red cherry, wild raspberry and stone fruit, enhanced by delicate floral touches of violet and wildflowers. With aeration, an attractive complexity emerges, revealing nuances of white pepper, dried herbs and crushed stone, along with subtle exotic notes of fig, ginger and orange peel.

Palate
Medium-bodied yet remarkably present, the palate seduces with tannins of great finesse, already perfectly integrated in its youth. A lively, saline acidity structures the whole, offering a masterful balance between concentrated fruit richness and profound minerality. The lengthy finish lingers on notes of red fruit and an elegant saline thread.

Food and Wine Pairing

This Grand Cru pairs beautifully with fine meats and rich, umami-laden dishes. It will elevate braised pigeon with endives and cepes, feathered game, roast lamb or a fine grilled côte de bœuf. Mushroom-based preparations, such as truffles, or dishes accompanied by reduced sauces will particularly echo its minerality and earthy character.

Service and Storage

Built for very long-term cellaring, the Clos de la Roche Grand Cru "Cuvée Vieilles Vignes" 2023 requires patience to reveal its full potential and true character. It can be enjoyed at its best from approximately 2035 to 2045.

The Authentic Expression of a Grand Cru from Burgundy by Domaine Ponsot

The Estate

Founded in 1872 by William Ponsot, Domaine Ponsot is an emblematic figure of Burgundy, located in the heart of Morey-Saint-Denis. Standing the test of time with a philosophy that runs counter to modern standards, the estate refuses to use chemical products and new oak barrels, favouring instead the pure expression of terroir. Today, Rose-Marie Ponsot, representing the fifth generation, runs the estate with passion. Alongside technical director Alexandre Abel, she carries on the family legacy, producing wines of rare authenticity, with an exceptional proportion of Grand Crus.

The Vineyard

The vineyard from which this wine originates spans 3.2 hectares, home to vines averaging 65 years of age. This cuvée blends two complementary terroirs: two-thirds come from the historic heart of Clos de la Roche, providing structure, while one-third comes from the lower slopes of Monts-Luisants, lending freshness. Planted at a high density of 11,000 vines per hectare, the vines draw their resources deep from soils composed of lean clay and limestone debris resting on a base of Premeaux and Comblanchien limestone.

The Vintage

The 2023 vintage presented its own climatic challenges, leading the estate to maintain its tradition of late harvesting to ensure berry quality. The harvest was carried out by hand between 16 and 20 September, achieving optimal ripeness while preserving natural balance, with no need for acidification whatsoever.

Winemaking and Aging

To craft the Clos de la Roche Grand Cru "Cuvée Vieilles Vignes" 2023, the grapes undergo an extremely rigorous sorting process before being fully destemmed. Fermentation begins through the action of indigenous yeasts, in temperature-controlled wooden vats. The wine is then aged for 18 months in French oak barrels averaging twenty years old. True to its convictions, the estate uses no new oak, favouring harmonious integration and absolute respect for the fruit.

Grape Variety

100% Pinot Noir