Corton-Clos-du-Roi Grand Cru rouge 2021

Wine description for Corton-Clos-du-Roi Grand Cru rouge 2021 by Chandon de Briailles

Colour & Appearance

Luminous, clear ruby red with garnet reflections. The medium intensity reveals the elegance of the 2021 vintage and the typical transparency of Burgundy Grand Cru wines.

Nose

Fascinatingly multi-layered: ripe cherries and redcurrants meet forest floor, undergrowth and a hint of clove. Floral notes of violet and a fine minerality reminiscent of wet stone join in. With air contact, tobacco and orange zest develop.

Palate

Precise and taut at moderate 12.5% alcohol. The biodynamic viticulture shows itself in the vibrant texture and crystalline purity. Silky tannins envelop the palate, whilst a vital acidity forms the backbone. The fruit is restrained yet intense – dark cherries, cranberries, underpinned by earthy, almost truffle-like notes. Impressive concentration without any heaviness.

Finish

Long, cool and mineral. The saline freshness and fine spice linger for minutes – a sign of true Grand Cru class.

Terroir & Origin

The Corton-Clos-du-Roi lies on the eastern slope of Corton Hill between Aloxe-Corton and Ladoix. Chandon de Briailles‘ parcel benefits from calcareous marl soils that give the wine its characteristic tension and minerality. Biodynamically farmed since 2005.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Pinot Noir from one of Burgundy’s most prestigious Grand Cru vineyard sites. Claude de Nicolay vinifies with minimal intervention to maximise the expression of terroir characteristics. The 2021 vintage shows itself cool and precise – a classic Burgundy vintage.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with duck à l’orange, rare roasted venison loin, coq au vin or aged Époisses. Also a sublime combination with porcini risotto or pigeon with truffle.

Special Features

A Grand Cru bearing the signature of the de Nicolay siblings: profound, individual and of impressive finesse. Drinking well now, but with potential for 15-20 years of cellar ageing.