Viniou Reviews
The 2022 Marsannay Rouge from Domaine Jean Fournier is a captivating example of Côte de Nuits Pinot Noir, hailing from the northernmost appellation of the Côte d’Or in Burgundy. Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, this wine bears all the hallmark delicacy and elegance the grape is celebrated for. The vintage 2022 stands out for its balance, with good ripeness owing to a warm and consistent growing season. Domaine Jean Fournier, known for its organic certification, takes a respectful approach to both vineyard and cellar, allowing the unique terroir to express itself fully. Vinification focuses on gentle extraction and careful oak ageing, preserving the grape’s pure fruit and subtle earthiness.
Marsannay is often considered a hidden gem within Burgundy, benefitting from its proximity to the iconic appellations of Gevrey-Chambertin and Fixin. The vineyards are planted on a patchwork of limestone and marl soils, imparting a pronounced minerality and finesse to the wines. The region’s semi-continental climate, with cool nights and warm days, encourages slow ripening and helps retain the essential acidity and aromatic complexity characteristic of great Pinot Noir. While Marsannay was historically recognised for its rosé wines, red Marsannay has come into its own in recent decades, gaining a reputation for vibrant, expressive bottlings.
For food pairings, the 2022 Marsannay Rouge responds beautifully to classic Burgundian fare. Pair it with coq au vin or duck breast with a cherry sauce to complement the wine's supple tannins and red fruit. Its elegance also works wonderfully alongside wild mushroom risotto or a simple roast chicken. For a regional touch, serve with jambon persillé or Epoisses cheese, taking care to avoid overly powerful flavours that might overshadow the wine’s subtleties.
Serve at 15-16°C to allow its aromatic profile to unfold fully, ideally after a short decant for younger vintages like 2022. This temperature showcases the freshness, bright fruit, and gentle earthiness that define this thoughtful Burgundian red.
