Viniou Reviews
Domaine Stephane Magnien’s Morey-Saint-Denis Premier Cru “Les Faconnières” 2022 is a striking example of Burgundy’s red wine craftsmanship, crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir. The 2022 vintage was marked by a warm, relatively dry growing season, resulting in generously ripe fruit, balanced by classic Burgundian finesse. The vineyard Les Faconnières is renowned within the commune for its Premier Cru status and its exceptional location just below the Grands Crus, where the soils are an optimal mix of limestone and clay with excellent drainage, imparting minerality and tension to the wine. Vinification here is attentive to tradition, with a focus on gentle extraction to preserve the delicate fruit and floral aromatics of Pinot Noir, while ageing in French oak barrels enhances structure without overwhelming the terroir-driven purity.
Morey-Saint-Denis, situated between Gevrey-Chambertin and Chambolle-Musigny in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, enjoys a semi-continental climate with marked seasonal contrasts. Hot summers and cool, often misty autumns allow for slow ripening of the grapes, and the predominantly limestone-rich soils are ideal for Pinot Noir, giving the wines both depth and elegance. The village has a proud winegrowing heritage, producing wines that combine the suppleness and perfume of Chambolle with the power and structure of Gevrey.
This Premier Cru’s seductive bouquet of black cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry and subtle violet unfolds with grace, complemented by hints of earthy spice and a discreet touch of oak. On the palate, its fine tannins and vibrant acidity create a wine of poise and longevity. For a perfectly harmonised food pairing, consider dishes such as roast duck with cherries, rack of lamb with thyme, or a classic coq au vin. Local Burgundy favourites like œufs en meurette or a pork terrine also showcase its versatility, while a simple Comté cheese will highlight its mineral backbone.
Allow this wine a brief decant to aerate, serving it at 16-17°C. Optimal enjoyment will come after a few years of cellaring, though its youthful fruit can charm now with careful appreciation.
