2024 Faiveley Les Rugiens Pommard 1er Cru, Burgundy

Pommard has a reputation for producing some of Burgundy's most powerful Pinot Noirs, yet the finest examples possess an elegance that can be quite captivating. Les Rugiens is one of the village's most celebrated Premier Cru vineyards, producing wines with remarkable concentration, structure and ageing potential. Domaine Faiveley has been part of Burgundy's history since 1825, with seventh generation siblings Erwan and Eve Faiveley continuing the family's dedication to exceptional vineyards. Winemaker Jérôme Flous oversees the estate's distinctive collection of wines.

The name Les Rugiens refers to the reddish iron rich soils that distinguish this remarkable vineyard. Situated on the slopes above Pommard, its limestone and clay contribute both intensity and mineral character. The cooler, challenging 2024 vintage demanded meticulous vineyard work, with the resulting wines showing freshness, aromatic detail and beautifully defined fruit.

Deep ruby red with vivid crimson highlights. Black cherry, wild raspberry and ripe plum mingle with violet, crushed rose petals, dark chocolate and a suggestion of earthy spice. The palate is concentrated and beautifully structured, with succulent dark fruit, firm yet polished tannins and refreshing acidity. Hints of liquorice, ironstone and dried thyme add savoury complexity to a long, persistent finish.

An excellent companion for slow roasted lamb with rosemary and garlic, duck breast with blackberries, or handmade porcini ravioli with sage. For a vegetarian option, try roasted eggplant with black lentils, pomegranate and warm spices.

Cellaring: 2030 to 2045+. A serious Premier Cru that will reward patience, developing greater complexity and beautifully integrated tannins over time.