2022 Domaine Jean-Marc Bouley Pommard 1er Les Rugiens, Cote de Beaune

The 2022 Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens Hauts is exquisite, wafting from the glass with aromas of sweet wild berries mingled with peonies, rose petals, blood orange and spices. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, it’s concentrated and mineral, its cool and lively core of fruit framed by very fine, powdery tannins, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. It’s reminiscent of an even more complete, accomplished version of Bouley’s 2015, reflecting all the work in the vineyards and refinement in the cellar that has taken place in the interim.

97+ points William Kelley robertparker.com Drink 2030-2055

Domaine Jean-Marc Bouley Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens from Côte de Beaune is a powerful and structured Pinot Noir, considered one of the finest expressions of Pommard’s terroir. Les Rugiens, a prestigious Premier Cru vineyard, is divided into two parts—Rugiens-Hauts and Rugiens-Bas—both known for their iron-rich clay-limestone soils, which lend the wine remarkable depth, intensity, and aging potential. Jean-Marc Bouley and his son, Thomas Bouley, have earned a reputation for meticulous vineyard work and minimal-intervention winemaking, producing wines that perfectly balance strength and elegance.

Deep ruby in color, this Pommard offers complex aromas of black cherry, wild strawberry, and plum, layered with notes of violet, forest floor, and crushed stone. On the palate, it is full-bodied and richly textured, with concentrated dark fruit flavors, savory herbs, and a touch of spice. The firm yet refined tannins provide structure and longevity, while vibrant acidity keeps the wine fresh and focused. The long, mineral-driven finish reveals hints of cocoa, leather, and smoky earth.

Domaine Bouley’s Pommard Les Rugiens is a natural match for roast duck, beef bourguignon, or game dishes such as venison and wild boar. It also pairs beautifully with mushroom-based dishes and hard cheeses like aged Comté. While approachable after a few years in the bottle, this wine has exceptional aging potential, evolving gracefully over 15–20 years to reveal even greater complexity and nuance.

Domaine Jean-Marc Bouley’s dedication to traditional Burgundian methods and focus on terroir-driven wines makes Les Rugiens a true collector’s wine, highly sought after by Pinot Noir enthusiasts.