Philippe Pacalet Pommard 2023

Philippe Pacalet makes this Pommard in Burgundy, France, a natural single-variety Pinot Noir from the village appellation. The fruit comes from south-facing vineyards averaging 45 years of age, farmed biodynamically on the clay, limestone and pebble soils that give Pommard its firmer, earthier style. The warm, sunny exposure ripens the Pinot fully while the limestone holds acidity and lends minerality. The whole clusters ferment for four weeks with their native yeasts and without temperature control, an approach that builds structure, savoury complexity and aromatic lift from stems and skins rather than added technique. The wine is aged in barrel, where slow oxygen exchange rounds the tannin while keeping the fruit fresh. The colour is medium ruby. The nose shows dark cherry and red berries over forest floor, dried herbs, rose and a peppery edge from the whole-cluster fermentation. The palate is savoury and structured, with firm but fine tannin, bright acidity and a long, earthy, mineral finish true to Pommard. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees. It suits roast duck, game birds, poultry and mushroom dishes.