Philippe Pacalet Bourgogne Vieilles Vignes 2023

Philippe Pacalet is a respected natural winemaker in Burgundy, and this Bourgogne bottling punches above its village level appellation. The Pinot Noir comes from vines around sixty years old grown on clay limestone soils rich in silt near Vosne Romanée. Older vines carry small, concentrated crops and reach deep into the limestone, which gives the wine its fine structure and mineral cut. Farming follows organic principles, and the wine is made naturally, with native yeasts and around two gentle presses a day over three weeks. It then ages on its lees for about eleven months without riddling, which builds a subtle savoury depth and a rounder texture while keeping the fruit pure. The colour is a translucent medium ruby. The nose is fragrant, with cherry, red berry and a rose floral lift over a fresh, earthy base. The palate is medium bodied and silky, with fine tannin, bright acidity, a twist of pepper and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees in a large glass. It is a classic partner for roast duck, poultry and mushroom dishes.