Domaine Chanson’s Beaune Premier Cru "Clos des Marconnets" 2018 is a refined expression of Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune. Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, this wine hails from the renowned "Clos des Marconnets" climat—a walled vineyard whose soils are predominantly clay-limestone, providing an ideal environment for the varietal. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warm and even growing season, resulting in concentrated fruit yet with a refreshing underlying acidity. The vinification favours gentle extraction, followed by delicate ageing in French oak barrels. This process preserves the elegance typical of the terroir, supporting aromas of ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and a subtle spice, complemented by nuances of earth and forest floor.
The Côte de Beaune, in the southern expanse of Burgundy, is famed for both its white and red wines, though Beaune itself leans towards Pinot Noir. The region benefits from a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, tempered by gentle hillside exposures and variable altitudes. The soils here are rich in limestone and clay, conferring finesse, tension, and aromatic complexity to the wines. Centuries of monastic and viticultural history have shaped Beaune’s patchwork of climats, and the Premier Crus like Clos des Marconnets are highly prized for their ability to convey nuance and depth.
Food pairings should emphasise the wine’s balance between fruit, earthy depth, and supple tannins. Classic Bourgogne dishes such as coq au vin or beef bourguignon will highlight its savoury character. Game birds or a duck breast with red fruit sauce can underscore its bright acidity. A simple roast chicken with herbs or a mushroom risotto would also make for successful matches, while mature cow’s milk cheeses from the region, such as Époisses or Comté, can gently round out the experience.
To appreciate the full aromatic lift and textural subtlety of this Premier Cru, serve it at 16-17°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes before serving can open up the bouquet, especially for this younger vintage. This wine, while approachable now, will reward a few more years’ cellaring for those with patience.
