2022 Domaine Theulot Juillot Mercurey Rouge 1er Cru La Cailloute, Burgundy

This 1.73-hectare vineyard, originally acquired by Nathalie’s grandfather, is a Theulot Juillot monopole and lies above Les Croichots. The domaine makes red and white from this terroir, the latter from a band of grey marlstone abutting the forest at the top of the vineyard. The red is drawn from two parcels on thickish red clay over hard oolitic limestone. The first parcel, planted in 1979, brings finesse, while the second—planted only a year later—delivers the structure and colour.

The sum of these parts is this domaine’s most elegant and sophisticated red.  Jasper Morris MW writes that this wine is “noted for its variations on a theme of cherry flavours”. In 2022, these cherry flavours are sweet and flowing, complemented by succulent freshness, svelte, seamless tannins and juicy, balanced length worthy of the domaine’s top red. It’s little wonder Nathalie Theulot calls this cuvée mon chouchou, an affectionate French nickname for someone dear to you.

The La Cailloute vineyard, a Premier Cru site, is prized for its limestone-rich soils and optimal exposure, which contribute to the wine’s minerality and refined structure. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the finest fruit is used in production.

Vinification is traditional, with fermentation in temperature-controlled vats to preserve the purity of the fruit. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, with a judicious use of new oak to add subtle complexity without overpowering the wine's inherent elegance.

In the glass, the wine exhibits a deep ruby color with garnet reflections. The nose is aromatic and complex, offering notes of red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry, complemented by hints of violet, baking spices, and a touch of earthiness.

On the palate, the Mercurey Rouge 1er Cru La Cailloute is medium-bodied and silky, with flavors of red berries, clove, and a subtle minerality. The wine’s fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity provide structure and length, leading to a long, elegant finish with lingering floral and spice notes.

This Premier Cru Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes such as roasted duck, coq au vin, or grilled salmon. Its complexity and balance also make it an excellent choice for cellaring, with the potential to develop further depth and character over 8-10 years.