Wines Pommard Marchand-Tawse - Les Saussilles - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Marchand-Tawse’s Pommard “Les Saussilles” 2020 is a striking example of Burgundy’s finesse, crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes harvested from the esteemed Les Saussilles lieu-dit in the Côte de Beaune. The 2020 vintage benefitted from a warm, balanced growing season, allowing for full ripeness and concentration while retaining freshness. The terroir is marked by clay-limestone soils, offering structure and minerality, and the vinification, typically gentle and meticulous in this estate, aims to preserve fruit purity and the vineyard’s distinctive character. Ageing in French oak barrels, often with a restrained use of new wood, lends complexity and subtle spice, while letting the grape and terroir shine.

Pommard has long held an illustrious place within the Côte de Beaune, esteemed for its robust Pinot Noir. The region’s continental climate, with relatively cool winters and warm, sunny summers, helps Pinot Noir ripen slowly and steadily, enhancing aromatic complexity. The local soils, rich in clay and iron, contribute to Pommard's reputation for wines with notable depth, firmer tannins, and earthy undertones compared to its neighbouring appellations. The area’s rich viticultural history, stretching back centuries, is reflected in the dedication to traditional methods and in the expressive wines that are highly sought-after among Burgundy enthusiasts.

This Pommard’s delicate structure and vibrant fruit profile—think black cherry, raspberry, violet, and subtle hints of undergrowth and spice—makes it a superb companion to dishes that echo its elegance and savouriness. Roast duck breast with a cherry or berry sauce, beef bourguignon, or grilled lamb chops would be excellent matches, as would mushroom risotto or a classic coq au vin. For a regional touch, pair it with oeufs en meurette or a fine Comté cheese.

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and refined palate, serve this wine at 16-17°C after allowing it to breathe in a decanter for at least 30 minutes. This will help open up its subtle bouquet and soften the tannins, ensuring a rewarding tasting experience.