Auxey-Duresses „Moulin aux Moines“ Vieilles Vignes Monopole rouge 2021

Wine description for Auxey-Duresses „Moulin aux Moines“ Vieilles Vignes Monopole rouge 2021 from Clos du Moulin aux Moines

Colour & Appearance

A luminous, transparent ruby red with vibrant depth – classically Burgundian in its restraint and elegance. Nothing heavy, nothing opaque: this wine has nothing to hide.

Nose

The nose seduces with a fine, precise fruit character: fresh raspberries, wild strawberries and a hint of stewed red fruits, underpinned by tomato essence, vanilla and a subtle shimmer of undergrowth and damp leaves. A light reduction lends the whole a spicy, almost mineral tension – a promise that unfolds with a little air.

Palate

On the palate, this Pinot Noir unfolds with remarkable smoothness and nobility. The tannin is fine, almost tender, yet clearly present. The acidity – initially silky – quickly gains vibrancy and gives the wine its Burgundian backbone. Red cherries, wild berries and a subtle mushroom note come together harmoniously, accompanied by a subtle wood spice and the characterful aftertaste of the reduction.

Finish

Long, multi-layered and sensual. The wine bids farewell with fresh acidity and a lingering fruit-spice interplay – a finish that invites contemplation.

Terroir & Origin

The monopoly vineyard site Moulin aux Moines lies in Auxey-Duresses, that underrated valley on the border with Meursault. The Vieilles-Vignes parcel – just 0.90 hectares – was planted in the 1950s at 300 metres altitude, where the soil consists of steep, dry limestone marl. A terroir that demands precision and depth – and delivers it.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pure Pinot Noir, hand-harvested with controlled yields of 38–44 hl/ha. Spontaneous fermentation with a high proportion of whole bunches, maturation in Burgundian pièces and tonneaux with minimal new oak. Neither filtered nor fined, minimal sulphur addition – a wine that reaches the bottle with the utmost honesty.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Ideal with wild pheasant breast on fettuccine with morel cream, a classic lamb kebab with cumin, apricots and almond kernels or an earthy risotto with beetroot.

Special Features

As a monopoly vineyard site, Moulin aux Moines is a rare testament to the potential of Auxey-Duresses – an appellation that stands in the shadow of its famous neighbours, yet produces wines of genuine character and strength. The 2021 vintage demonstrates that elegance and depth are not contradictions.