Among the most distinguished expressions of Auxey-Duresses, the 1er Cru 2018 from Domaine Taupenot-Merme gracefully reveals the soul of Pinot Noir in the Côte de Beaune. Here, delicacy takes precedence over a display of power. The nose, luminous and pure, evokes red cherry, violet and crunchy small berries, then is haloed by a subtle smoky nuance reminiscent of the warmth from an old hearth. On the palate the material unfolds with suppleness, supported by fine tannins and a chiselled framework that gives dynamic drive to the very last drop. For the discerning enthusiast, this wine answers a search for precision, balance and truthful terroir expression. For the attentive host, it solves a delicate equation: offering a red that is accessible today yet has a calm cellaring potential, able to accompany fine meats, roast poultry and veal cuts while revealing them at their best. Limited production, a viticultural approach respectful of the soils, measured ageing—all contribute to a noble, luminous signature.

Assemblage et vinification

This 1er Cru is made exclusively from Pinot Noir, Burgundy's flagship grape, selected from Auxey-Duresses parcels whose altitude and exposure favour harmonious ripening. The 2018 vintage, generous and fully realised, produced grapes with beautiful concentration without excess, preserving aromatic brightness and freshness. Domaine Taupenot-Merme, managed with respect for natural balances, carries out precise ageing, split between tank and barrel, to polish texture and refine the bouquet without masking the expression of the cru. Time does its work, rounding contours, magnifying floral notes and juicy fruit, while a delicate woody imprint, always discreet, provides a subtle setting. The result is a chiselled, upright, clear style that does justice to the discreet elegance and the muted depth of the great reds of the Côte de Beaune.

Notes de dégustation

• Robe : Bright ruby with garnet highlights, clear and vibrant, announcing poised maturity. The brilliance of the disc and the finesse of the legs promise a balance between sap and freshness.
• Nez : Precise and nuanced, on red cherry, redcurrant and raspberry, enhanced by violet accents and a fine smoky touch recalling warm embers. Suggestions of rose petal, delicate spices and warm stone complete a very composed bouquet.
• Bouche : Soft, subtle attack, a generous mid-palate without weight, tannins of noble, caressing grain. The frame, lithe and precise, unfolds a delicate sap, then a fresh, extended finish with floral notes and a hint of salinity that calls for food.

Température de service et conseils

Serve this Côte de Beaune at around 15 to 16°C in large glasses to open the bouquet and preserve the fruit's brightness. Aeration of 20 to 30 minutes is sufficient to reveal the aromatic fullness of the 2018 vintage without stripping away its natural grace. Store bottles on their side, away from light, in a cool, humid cellar. Cellaring potential is on the horizon of 2024 to 2028, developing into more tertiary notes—dried leaves, gentle spices—while preserving a delicate structure and a silky mouthfeel.

Accords mets et vin

• Apéritifs : fine charcuterie, poultry terrine, comté gougères, mushroom toasts.
• Entrées : œufs en meurette, warm gizzard salad, veal tartare, roasted vegetables with thyme and reduced jus.
• Plats : roasted free-range poultry, pink veal cut, delicate braised beef, feathered game in season, risotto with brown mushrooms.
• Fromages : aged Comté, delicately aged Époisses, Brie de Meaux, washed-rind tomme.
• Desserts : lightly sugared red fruit tart, cherry clafoutis, light chocolate dessert with high cocoa content.

Moments de dégustation

This 1er Cru suits a variety of chosen moments, always with elegance and restraint.

• For an intimate dinner where the harmony of dishes and conversation can take their time.
• During a tasting with fellow enthusiasts seeking a racy, vibrant and nuanced Pinot Noir.
• As a connoisseur’s gift to give to those who cherish the authenticity of Burgundian terroirs.

Caractéristiques

• Nom : Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru 2018, Domaine Taupenot-Merme
• Appellation : Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru AOC
• Type : Red wine, Côte de Beaune style
• Millésime : 2018
• Cépage : Pinot Noir (100%)
• Degré d’alcool : 13.5% vol.
• Vieillissement : aged in tank and barrel, pure expression of the cru
• Contenance : 75 cl
• Garde : until 2024 to 2028 depending on storage conditions
• Température de service : 15 to 16°C