2021 Chateau de Meursault Pommard Clos de Epenots 1er Cru, Burgundy

Mid crimson color. Not one of the most ebullient noses at first, on its reserve. Plenty of weight of fresh fruit a little bit of fresh orange, otherwise raspberry and redcurrant, no great weight at the back but good length. This needs and will get a longer breeding. Drink from 2027-2033. Tasted Oct 2022.

90-93 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

The Domaine farms 3.6 hectares in this famous 1er Cru (within the Petit Epenots ) soils of red ferruginous & gravel on ancient alluvial deposits. 15% whole bunches & cold soak pre fermentation. 18 months elevage in 30% new barriques, aromas of black berries & spicy notes while the palate is dark & complex with structure and silky tannins.

Château de Meursault Pommard Clos des Epenots 1er Cru is a distinguished Pinot Noir from one of the most prestigious Premier Cru vineyards in the Pommard appellation, located in Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune. Château de Meursault, with its centuries-long history dating back to the 11th century, is renowned for producing wines that embody the character and elegance of Burgundy’s terroirs. The Clos des Epenots vineyard, a walled “clos,” is celebrated for yielding powerful, structured, and age-worthy Pinot Noir.

The vineyard’s name, "Epenots," comes from the Old French word for thorn bushes, a nod to its historic landscape before becoming one of Pommard’s most treasured sites. The terroir features deep clay-limestone soils, which contribute to the wine’s richness and minerality, while its southeast-facing exposure ensures ideal ripening conditions for the Pinot Noir grapes.

Under the direction of Stéphane Follin-Arbelet, the winemaking process at Château de Meursault is designed to honor the vineyard’s pedigree. Grapes are hand-harvested, rigorously sorted, and fermented in small vats to preserve the purity and complexity of the fruit. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, with 30-40% new oak, for 16-18 months, adding depth and structure without overshadowing the wine’s delicate flavors.

In the glass, Château de Meursault Pommard Clos des Epenots 1er Cru displays a deep ruby hue. The nose is a layered bouquet of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, accented by notes of violets, earthy truffle, and a touch of sweet spice. On the palate, it is full-bodied and intense, with velvety tannins and a harmonious balance of dark fruit, savory undertones, and a long, mineral-driven finish. This wine has exceptional aging potential, developing further complexity over a decade or more.

Perfect for pairing with dishes like roast duck, beef bourguignon, or wild mushroom risotto, this Premier Cru is a true expression of Pommard’s power and refinement.