2023 Faiveley Mercurey Le Clos du Roy 1er Cru, Burgundy

From one of Mercurey’s most celebrated Premier Cru sites, Faiveley Le Clos du Roy offers a more structured, mineral driven expression of Pinot Noir from the Côte Chalonnaise. Domaine Faiveley, with roots dating back to 1825, has long championed Mercurey as a source of serious Burgundy, and Clos du Roy sits high on the slope with poorer, limestone dominant soils that naturally restrict yields and intensify character. The result is a wine that leans more toward precision and tension than sheer generosity.

A deep ruby garnet with brilliant clarity fills the glass. Aromas unfold with red cherry, cranberry and wild strawberry layered with rose petal, crushed herbs and a distinct stony mineral edge. There is a lifted, slightly more angular profile here, hinting at the wine’s structure and ageing potential.

The palate is medium bodied and finely built, delivering vibrant red berry fruit framed by firm, chalky tannins and bright acidity. Notes of pomegranate, spice and earthy nuance develop through the mid palate, leading to a long, focused finish that feels both precise and quietly powerful. This Premier Cru will reward patience over ten to fifteen years, evolving into layers of truffle, dried florals and savoury complexity.

Roast duck with cherry glaze, grilled quail with herbs, or a rich lentil and mushroom dish that leans into the wine’s savoury side. A late evening pairing of Glenn Gould playing Bach or something minimalist from Philip Glass, the wine holding that same sense of structure, discipline and quiet intensity.