Domaine A. & P. de Villaine Mercurey Les Montots, Cote Chalonnaise, France

Opening with profound aromatic finesse and finishing with depth and grace, the 2020 Domaine A. & P. de Villaine Mercurey Les Montots from Côte Chalonnaise, France, is a stunning expression of Pinot Noir rooted in place and history. Though not formally classified as premier cru, this wine effortlessly matches such caliber with its layered elegance and remarkable structure, proof of its pedigree and the mastery of Aubert de Villaine.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Soil Type: Clay and limestone with iron content
• Vineyard: 1.6 hectares, 40–50 years old
• Vinification: 14–17 days maceration in wood cuves, 2/3 whole-cluster fermentation with native yeasts
• Aging: 10–12 months in a mix of barrels and foudres
• Closure: Natural cork
• Cellaring Potential: Now to 2040

Sensory Description:

A beautifully perfumed nose leads with floral lift and red fruit precision, think wild strawberry, tart cherry, and red currant, layered with earth, spice, and a hint of forest floor. The palate is strikingly silky with impressively fine tannins and vibrant acidity, offering generous flavors of raspberry, pomegranate, and hints of crushed herbs. Barrel aging imparts gentle spice and subtle oak nuance, rounding out a palate of purity and poise.

Awards & Accolades:

• 95 Points – Vinous, Antonio Galloni: "A wine of total class… dazzling energy and mineral-drenched intensity."
• 90 Points – Robert Parker Wine Advocate, Luis Gutiérrez: "Citrusy, smoky, and Mediterranean with good ripeness and balance."

Winemaker's Background:

Domaine A. & P. de Villaine is the personal estate of Aubert de Villaine, co-director of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. Based in Bouzeron, the estate has championed organic farming since 1997 and is known for crafting soulful expressions from the Côte Chalonnaise. The Les Montots vineyard, located on a steep south-facing slope in Mercurey, is planted to mature Pinot Noir vines and delivers wines of structure, energy, and longevity.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Mercurey Pinot Noir at 16°C in large Burgundy stems to showcase its aromatic complexity. Pair with duck breast with cherry reduction, roasted game birds, or mushroom risotto. Its supple structure and vivid fruit also make it a beautiful match for grilled salmon or pork tenderloin.

This is a wine that defies classification, an organically farmed Mercurey Pinot Noir of extraordinary finesse and aging potential, made by one of Burgundy’s most revered figures. The 2020 vintage confirms Les Montots as a hidden jewel with premier cru quality in all but name. Because legacy, terroir, and artistry meet in every glass. This is the essence of great Burgundy, rendered with clarity and grace.