2024 Faiveley Clos de l'Ecu Monopole Beaune 1er Cru, Burgundy

There is something particularly appealing about a Burgundy monopole, a vineyard owned entirely by one domaine, where the character of a single piece of land can be followed from vintage to vintage. Clos de l'Écu is one of Domaine Faiveley's treasured holdings in Beaune, a Premier Cru that combines the generous charm of the appellation with impressive structure and refinement. Founded in 1825, Faiveley remains in family hands, with seventh generation siblings Erwan and Eve Faiveley guiding the estate and Jérôme Flous overseeing winemaking.

Situated on the slopes above Beaune, Clos de l'Écu takes its name from the old French word for shield. Its limestone and clay soils produce Pinot Noir with a lovely combination of ripe fruit, earthy complexity and finely defined tannins. The challenging 2024 season required careful vineyard work and rigorous selection, resulting in wines that favour freshness, fragrance and elegance over sheer power.

Bright ruby red with vibrant crimson reflections. Wild cherry, red plum and raspberry mingle with violet, dried rose petals and a gentle suggestion of cinnamon and forest floor. The palate is beautifully composed, with juicy red fruit, fine yet persistent tannins and refreshing acidity. Subtle notes of crushed stone, sweet spice and autumn leaves add interest to the long, savoury finish.

Delicious with duck and shiitake dumplings, roasted quail with cherries, or a golden wild mushroom and leek tart. For something a little different, try miso glazed eggplant with sesame and crispy shallots.

Cellaring: 2028 to 2038+. Its youthful fruit is appealing, although several years in the cellar should reveal greater savoury complexity and beautifully integrated tannins.