Domaine Thevenot-Le Brun’s “Cuvée Clos du Vignon” 2018 is a red wine from the Hautes Côtes de Nuits AOC, an appellation covering the higher altitude slopes west of the classic Côte de Nuits in Burgundy. Crafted predominantly from Pinot Noir, the sole permitted red grape in the region, this cuvée expresses the freshness and finesse typical of its terroir. The 2018 vintage enjoyed a warm growing season, producing ripe, expressive fruit while retaining a lovely balance thanks to the cooler evenings of the higher altitude vineyards. Vinification here tends to be traditional, with careful extraction to preserve the grape’s delicate aromatics and the site’s mineral nuances, often involving a period of maturation in French oak to add complexity.
The Hautes Côtes de Nuits is a sub-region famous for its picturesque rolling hills and patchwork vineyards. Compared to the lower, more renowned slopes of the Côte de Nuits, this area is slightly cooler and sits at a higher elevation, with limestone-rich soils that imbue the wines with a lively acidity and a mineral backbone. Historically, the region was long overshadowed by its prestigious neighbours to the east, but recent decades have seen a surge in quality, especially with global warming favouring the cooler sites. The tradition and savoir-faire of Burgundy are ever present, with meticulous vineyard management and respect for the environment playing a major role.
This wine’s vibrant red fruit, subtle floral notes, and underlying earthy character pair beautifully with cuisine from the region and beyond. Consider serving it with classic dishes such as coq au vin or a wild mushroom risotto. The wine’s supple tannins and refreshing acidity also make it a superb partner for roasted duck breast or seared tuna. A platter of aged Burgundian cheeses such as Époisses or Citeaux would provide a fitting local touch.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for around 30 minutes to allow its aromatic complexity to emerge, and serve at 15-16°C. This will accentuate both its freshness and its subtle depth, providing a true taste of the Hautes Côtes de Nuits terroir.
