Wines Unspecified Domaine Robert Chevillon - Les Cailles - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Robert Chevillon’s 2016 “Les Cailles” Premier Cru is an exquisite example of classic Burgundy Pinot Noir. Located in the revered Nuits-Saint-Georges appellation, though the specific subregion is not detailed, Les Cailles Premier Cru is famed for its complexity and finesse. The Pinot Noir grapes, harvested in 2016—a vintage noted for its elegance and aromatic purity following a cool, late-ripening season—express a refined balance between structure and fruit. The terroir in Les Cailles typically comprises deep, limestone-rich soils, contributing to fine mineral tension and a silky texture. Vinification at Domaine Robert Chevillon is meticulous, favouring gentle extraction to showcase the natural aromatics and vibrant personality of the fruit, all while preserving the wine’s signature freshness and ageing potential.

Burgundy’s viticultural history stretches back centuries, with the Côte de Nuits in particular celebrated for producing some of the finest Pinot Noir in the world. The climate here is continental, bringing warm summers and cool autumns—perfect for allowing Pinot Noir to achieve full phenolic ripeness while retaining lively acidity. The soils in this region are a mosaic of marl and limestone, highly conducive to refined, long-lived wines marked by their expressive aromatics and precision. Over generations, domaines like Robert Chevillon have built a reputation on crafting wines that respect both tradition and terroir, creating bottles with a true sense of place.

A wine of such calibre deserves thoughtful food pairings. Its delicate red and black fruit spectrum, intertwined with floral notes, gentle spice, and earthy undertones, pairs beautifully with classic Burgundian dishes such as coq au vin, duck breast with cherry sauce, or even a simple poulet de Bresse. For a traditional touch, consider serving with mushroom-based dishes, such as a wild mushroom risotto, or a charcuterie platter with mild, aged cheeses like Comté or Reblochon.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for about 30 minutes before serving to encourage the bouquet to unfurl. The ideal tasting temperature falls between 16-17°C, enhancing both aromatics and palate harmony. This 2016 Les Cailles promises a graceful drinking experience now, though its structure also suggests excellent cellaring potential for further development.