2022 Fabien Coche Auxey-Duresses Rouge, Burgundy

The 2022 Fabien Coche Auxey-Duresses Rouge showcases the estate's exceptional skill with Pinot Noir in this underrated appellation of the Côte de Beaune. The 2022 vintage demonstrates how Coche's meticulous vineyard management and gentle winemaking can transform Auxey-Duresses into something truly compelling, offering classic Burgundian character with excellent value proposition.

Medium ruby with vibrant clarity, this Auxey-Duresses opens with an enticing bouquet of red cherry, wild strawberry, and violet, enhanced by subtle notes of forest floor, dried herbs, and a hint of spice. The wine displays impressive purity and freshness, benefiting from the appellation's limestone-rich soils and Coche's careful approach to extraction that preserves the delicate fruit character while building structure and complexity.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with silky tannins and excellent balance. Flavors of bright red fruit, cranberry, and rose petal are supported by fine acidity and a mineral backbone that provides both elegance and aging potential. The oak treatment is restrained and well-integrated, adding subtle complexity without overwhelming the delicate Pinot Noir expression. The finish is graceful and persistent, with lingering notes of red fruit and earthy undertones.

This elegant Auxey-Duresses Rouge pairs beautifully with roasted duck breast with cherry sauce, grilled lamb cutlets with rosemary, or mushroom and herb risotto. The wine's versatility also makes it an excellent match with pan-seared salmon, aged hard cheeses like aged cheddar, or rustic preparations that complement its earthy, fruit-driven character.