Wines Échézeaux Domaine 2015 Echézeaux Grand Cru, Domaine du Clos Frantin - 2015

Viniou Reviews

The 2015 Échézeaux Grand Cru from Domaine du Clos Frantin is a superb Burgundy red, crafted entirely from Pinot Noir grapes, as is customary in this prestigious appellation. The 2015 vintage is recognised for its exceptional weather conditions throughout Burgundy, delivering wines of great depth, ripeness, and structure. This Grand Cru comes from the revered Échézeaux vineyard, where old vines rooted in limestone-clay soils contribute intensity and complexity to the wine. The vinification at Domaine du Clos Frantin combines traditional Burgundian methods with meticulous care, favouring gentle extraction during fermentation and ageing in high-quality French oak barrels, which lends subtle notes of spice and integration of tannins without overwhelming the purity of the fruit.

Échézeaux lies within La Côte de Nuits, the northern jewel of the Burgundy region famed for producing some of the world’s finest Pinot Noirs. The region benefits from a semi-continental climate, with warm summers and cool nights, ensuring grapes ripen fully while preserving acidity. The limestone-rich soils impart a distinctive minerality and finesse to the wines, while centuries of monastic and aristocratic stewardship have shaped the vineyard landscape into a patchwork of distinct climats. This historical backdrop underpins the exceptional pedigree of Échézeaux Grand Cru sites.

For food pairing, the elegance and aromatic complexity of this wine call for refined dishes. Classic pairings include roast duck with cherries, loin of venison, or slow-cooked beef bourguignon — all bringing out the earthy and fruity depth of the Pinot Noir. For a regional match, try a simply seasoned coq au vin prepared with Burgundy spices, or a selection of mature, creamy cheeses such as Époisses or Brillat-Savarin.

To enjoy the full aromatic breadth and silkiness of texture, serve this wine at 16-17°C. If opening a well-cellared bottle, consider decanting it for up to an hour to allow its bouquet to blossom. This Grand Cru is enjoyable now but will continue to develop complexity if patiently cellared over the coming decade.