Wines Nuits-Saint-Georges Philippe Pacalet - 1er Cru Aux Argillas - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Philippe Pacalet’s 2016 Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru Aux Argillas is a distinguished red Burgundy that beautifully encapsulates its origin. Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, this wine hails from the prestigious Aux Argillas vineyard, a Premier Cru site noted for its clay-rich soils, which lend the wine a finesse and subtle structure. The approach to vinification is notably natural, with whole bunch fermentation and indigenous yeasts, plus minimal intervention in the cellar. This results in a wine of striking purity—expect a vibrant bouquet brimming with dark cherries, wild berries, and notes of violets, complemented by earthy undertones and a refined mineral edge. The 2016 vintage benefits from a cooler growing season, preserving freshness and infusing the wine with both intensity and elegance.

La Côte de Nuits is arguably the beating heart of Burgundy for Pinot Noir, renowned around the world for its patchwork of small, meticulously tended vineyards. Nuits-Saint-Georges, situated towards the south of the Côte de Nuits, is celebrated for producing wines with both power and longevity, yet the Premier Crus, especially Aux Argillas, often showcase remarkable delicacy and aromatic lift. The region’s soils—a mix of limestone and clay—are perfectly suited to Pinot Noir, and the relatively cool continental climate ensures slow, balanced ripening, allowing complex flavours and seamless tannins to develop. With a winegrowing history dating back centuries, Nuits-Saint-Georges continues to command respect among Burgundy connoisseurs.

This wine will shine alongside classic Burgundian cuisine. Consider pairing it with coq au vin or a traditional boeuf bourguignon, where its acidity and supple tannins provide the perfect counterpoint to rich, savoury sauces. Roast duck with cherries, or even morel mushroom risotto, will complement its earthy and fruit-forward profile. A cheese board featuring ripe Brie de Meaux or Epoisses would round out the experience magnificently.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Nuits-Saint-Georges at 15-17°C. Decanting for about thirty minutes before serving will help unlock its aromatic complexity. This wine is enjoyable now but will further reward cellaring for several more years.