Domaine Ponsot Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes 2016 Magnum

Histoire du domaine 

Founded in 1872, **Domaine Ponsot** is one of Burgundy’s most iconic estates, known for its commitment to tradition, biodynamic farming, and minimal intervention winemaking. The jewel of the estate is its parcel in **Clos de la Roche Grand Cru**, planted with very old Pinot Noir vines—some dating back to the early 20th century. The “Vieilles Vignes” cuvée represents the purest expression of this exceptional terroir, offering complexity, finesse, and remarkable longevity.

Terroir 

Clos de la Roche, located in the Morey-Saint-Denis appellation of the Côte de Nuits, is one of the most esteemed Grand Crus of Burgundy. The vineyard’s stony, marl-limestone soils and ideal exposure provide excellent drainage and balance, allowing for slow, even ripening of the old-vine Pinot Noir. The “Vieilles Vignes” selection reflects the profound depth and aromatic complexity gained from these ancient vines.

Vinification

Grapes are hand-harvested at perfect maturity, with meticulous sorting. Fermentation is done using indigenous yeasts, with whole-cluster vinification often employed depending on the vintage. The wine is aged in French oak barrels (very limited new oak, in keeping with the domaine’s philosophy) for approximately 18 to 24 months, with no fining or filtration to preserve the purity of the fruit and the integrity of the terroir.

Notes de dégustation

Brilliant deep ruby color. The nose is elegant and complex, with aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries, rose petals, violets, and forest floor, complemented by subtle notes of sweet spices, licorice, and mineral undertones. On the palate, the wine is silky, structured, and vibrant, with fine-grained tannins and a long, graceful finish. The 2016 vintage offers precision, freshness, and superb aging potential, especially in Magnum format.

An outstanding Grand Cru Burgundy—powerful yet refined, expressing the depth and complexity of old-vine Pinot Noir with perfect balance and grace.

Accords mets-vins

Ideal with roasted duck, pigeon, lamb, veal, or game birds. Also pairs beautifully with mushroom dishes and aged cheeses like Comté or Époisses.