Domaine Jacob’s Ladoix Rouge 2023 is a red wine from the prestigious Côte de Beaune in Burgundy, a region celebrated for producing some of the world’s most refined and expressive Pinot Noir. While Pinot Noir is most commonly associated with this area, and likely forms the backbone of this cuvée, one must remain open to slight variations in the blend, especially in lesser-known climats. The 2023 vintage, still young, is expected to offer a vibrant and lively character, with a bright ruby hue and an enticing aromatic profile suggesting notes of red cherry, wild strawberry, hints of raspberry, and a subtle whisper of violet. The palate typically showcases freshness, delicate tannic structure, and a silkiness that underlines the elegance for which Ladoix reds are known. Domaine Jacob, while perhaps not as internationally renowned as some neighbours, is locally admired for a sensitive approach to both vineyard management and winemaking, allowing the individual terroir of Ladoix to be fully expressed.
Ladoix sits at the northern gateway of the Côte de Beaune, bordering the Côte de Nuits, which lends its wines a unique bridging style: they combine the structure and aromatic purity similar to their northern cousins with the rounded, supple textures characteristic of the Beaune sector. The region benefits from a continental climate with relatively cool nights, ideal for retaining acidity and freshness in red wines. The soils here are often a harmonious mix of clay, limestone, and marl, helping to generate complexity and finesse. With vineyard records dating back to medieval times, Ladoix has a long and distinguished history as an origin of honest, characterful Burgundian wines.
This Ladoix Rouge lends itself to a wide array of classic pairings. Its gentle structure and fresh acidity allow it to complement Burgundian specialities such as coq au vin, duck with cherries, or rabbit with mustard sauce. It would also shine with roast chicken, grilled pork tenderloin, or earthy vegetarian dishes featuring mushrooms or lentils. A simple cheese board with soft cheeses like Brie de Meaux or Chaource would likewise create a harmonious match.
To best appreciate its aromatic nuance and refreshing structure, serve at 15–16°C, ideally after a brief time in the decanter if opened within its youth. This temperature allows the subtle fruit and floral notes, as well as the delicate tannins, to fully express themselves. Enjoy the discovery of this Côte de Beaune gem.
