Wines Morey-Saint-Denis A.F. Gros - 2018

Viniou Reviews

A.F. Gros’s 2018 Morey-Saint-Denis is a quintessential expression of Pinot Noir from the heart of Burgundy’s Côte de Nuits. The 2018 vintage enjoyed a sunny, warm growing season, resulting in ripe, expressive fruit and supple tannins. Sourced from the gently sloping limestone and marl soils of Morey-Saint-Denis, the wine reveals a bouquet of dark cherry, wild strawberry, and violet, underpinned by nuances of earthy forest floor and a touch of sweet spice from judicious oak ageing. Fermentation is traditional, preserving the purity of fruit and the delicate floral character typical of the appellation. On the palate, the wine is elegantly structured, with fine tannins, fresh acidity, and a lingering, mineral-driven finish.

Morey-Saint-Denis sits between Gevrey-Chambertin and Chambolle-Musigny, benefitting from a temperate continental climate that favours the slow, even ripening of Pinot Noir grapes. The combination of clay-limestone soils and varied exposures produces wines renowned for their balance and finesse, often considered a harmonious marriage of the power of Gevrey and the silkiness of Chambolle. This historic village boasts several prized Premier and Grand Cru vineyards, and the lieux-dits contribute character and complexity to its village wines.

This 2018 Morey-Saint-Denis calls for refined yet flavourful dishes. It pairs beautifully with classic Burgundian fare such as coq au vin or duck breast with a cherry reduction. Roast guinea fowl, mushroom risotto, or pork tenderloin with a red wine jus are also lovely matches. For an authentic regional pairing, consider a plate of local cheeses like Époisses or Brillat-Savarin, or earthy dishes highlighting wild mushrooms and root vegetables.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at around 15-16°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes will help open up its aromatic complexity, especially in its youth. Enjoy over the next 5-10 years to appreciate its evolution in bottle, as the fruit intermingles further with earthy, savoury nuances.