2022 Vincent Girardin Pommard Vieilles Vignes, Burgundy

Vincent Girardin Pommard Vieilles Vignes is a powerful and expressive Pinot Noir from the village of Pommard in Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune. This wine exemplifies the richness and structure for which Pommard is known while showcasing the finesse and purity that are hallmarks of Vincent Girardin’s winemaking. Sourced from old vines (vieilles vignes), this Pinot Noir reflects the depth and complexity that mature vineyards bring to a wine.

The grapes are grown on limestone and clay-rich soils in Pommard, a village celebrated for producing bold and structured red wines. The old vines, many of which are over 50 years old, produce low yields of intensely flavored fruit, resulting in a wine with concentrated aromas, vibrant acidity, and fine tannins. The vineyards benefit from sustainable farming practices, reflecting Girardin’s commitment to environmental stewardship and terroir-driven winemaking.

The winemaking process involves careful hand-harvesting and sorting to select only the best grapes. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled vats to preserve the natural expression of the fruit. The wine is aged for 14-16 months in French oak barrels, with about 20-30% new oak, allowing for integration of oak flavors without overpowering the wine’s inherent elegance.

In the glass, Vincent Girardin Pommard Vieilles Vignes shows a deep ruby color. The nose is complex and inviting, with aromas of ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and plums, accented by hints of violets, forest floor, and a touch of spice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with firm but refined tannins, fresh acidity, and flavors of dark berries, licorice, and earthy minerality. The finish is long and satisfying, marked by a balance of power and finesse.

This wine is an excellent match for roasted meats such as duck or lamb, as well as hearty dishes like beef Bourguignon or mushroom risotto. It also pairs beautifully with charcuterie and aged cheeses. While approachable now with some decanting, this Pommard has the structure to develop further complexity over 8-12 years of cellaring.