Philippe Pacalet Nuits-Saint-Georges 2023

Philippe Pacalet is one of Burgundy's noted natural winemakers, and this Nuits-Saint-Georges is monovarietal Pinot Noir from the Côte de Nuits in the Côte-d'Or. The fruit comes from vines averaging around forty-five years old, planted on east-facing plots of clay-limestone with a surface layer of pebbles over limestone, in a microclimate that is both fresh and sunny. Older vines and limestone soils give Pinot Noir with structure, fine red fruit and a stony, mineral character. Winemaking starts with carbonic maceration of whole bunches, with fermentation by the grapes' own native yeasts and no added temperature control, a gentle, low-intervention approach that keeps the fruit bright and adds a perfumed, floral lift. The wine then ages eighteen months in French oak, mostly used, so the oak supports rather than dominates. The colour is bright, medium ruby. The nose is red cherry and raspberry with rose petal, a whisper of pepper, dried herbs and a clear earthy, stony note. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with silky tannins, vivid acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees. It is a classic with duck, game birds and mushrooms.