Comte Armand : Auxey-Duresses 1er cru 2022

The Elegance and Precision of a Premier Cru from Burgundy by Domaine Comte Armand

The Estate

Founded in 1828, Domaine du Comte Armand is a historic figure located in the heart of Pommard, in Burgundy. Owned by the Comte Armand family since its founding, the estate spans approximately nine hectares. A pioneer of sustainable viticulture, it is certified organic and applies the principles of biodynamics. Technical direction, held by Paul Zinetti since 2014, will be taken over in 2026 by Australian winemaker Jane Eyre. The estate stands out for its constant pursuit of pure terroir expression, limiting yields and promoting biodiversity.

The Vineyard

This wine comes from the Auxey-Duresses appellation, located in a valley of the Côte de Beaune. The vines flourish at around 250 meters of altitude on steep slopes facing east and southeast. The plot, covering approximately one hectare, comprises two classified climats: Les Breterins, with pale soils that favor fruit, and Les Duresses, with dense, limestone-rich soils that provide structure. The vineyard is cultivated without herbicides, with mechanical soil work and the use of plant decoctions to protect the vines.

The Vintage

The year 2022 marked a return to classic yields after several difficult seasons. The growing cycle benefited from mild temperatures, followed by a particularly hot and dry summer, resulting in abundant sunshine. Water stress on the vines was fortunately avoided thanks to timely rainfall at the end of June and mid-August. The harvest took place under favorable conditions, yielding healthy, concentrated berries.

Winemaking and Aging

The making of the Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru 2022 relies on a rigorous selection of the berries at harvest. In the cellar, the philosophy favors finesse over extraction. The grapes are fully destemmed before undergoing fermentation marked by extended skin maceration. This method refines the tannins and develops aromatic complexity while preserving the delicacy of the fruit.

Grape Variety

Pinot Noir (100%).

Characteristics and Tasting Notes for the Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru 2022 by Comte Armand

Tasting

Colour
The colour reveals itself in brilliant, vibrant ruby red hues.

Nose
The bouquet expresses aromas of fresh red berries, such as raspberry and redcurrant, highlighted by floral notes of peony. Subtle touches of liquorice, green herbs, and a mineral undertone complete the ensemble.

Palate
The attack is smooth and refined. The palate reveals a silky texture supported by elegant tannins. The balance between mineral tension and fruit richness carries the wine toward a long finish.

Food and Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with white meats such as poultry, guinea fowl, or veal, as well as rabbit. It also pairs well with mushroom-based dishes, risottos made with poultry stock, grilled vegetables with Mediterranean herbs, and fine charcuterie platters. As for cheese, it enhances a Brie, a Camembert, or goat cheeses.

Service and Storage

To fully enjoy this Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 15 and 16°C. This wine can be enjoyed young but has the structure needed to age favorably in the cellar until at least 2032.