La Maison Romane Fixin Les Clos 2023

La Maison Romane is run by Oronce de Beler from a sixteenth century house in Vosne-Romanée, working organically and with natural cellar methods. This Fixin comes from the Côte de Nuits, the northern stretch of Burgundy's slope, where limestone and clay soils give Pinot Noir its structure and earthy savour. The cooler sites at the top of the appellation hold acidity, while the marl gives a firmer, more tannic character than the villages further south. Vinification follows a low intervention path, with native yeast fermentation and ageing for twelve months in French oak, much of it used, so the wood supports the wine without dominating the fruit. Slow oxygen exchange through the barrel softens the tannins and adds a savoury depth. The wine is medium ruby, with dark cherry, redcurrant and wild raspberry over forest floor, undergrowth and a touch of spice. The palate is taut and fresh, the tannins fine and slightly grippy, the finish dry and earthy. Serve at 15 to 17 degrees, ideally decanted. It pairs with roast beef, game birds and mushroom dishes.