Wines Vosne-Romanée Bernard Rion - Les Chaumes - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The Bernard Rion Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru “Les Chaumes” 2023 is an exemplary expression of Burgundy’s famed Côte de Nuits. Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, the hallmark grape of the region, this cuvée is drawn from the Les Chaumes vineyard, a highly regarded Premier Cru site renowned for yielding wines of finesse and depth. The 2023 vintage in Burgundy was marked by a temperate season, encouraging even ripening and expressive aromatics. Winemaking at Bernard Rion is uncompromisingly traditional, with hand harvesting and gentle extraction allowing the character of the terroir to shine. Maturation in French oak barrels imparts subtle spice and structure, supporting the wine’s vibrant fruit and elegance.

Vosne-Romanée is often described as the jewel in Burgundy's crown, situated between Nuits-Saint-Georges and Flagey-Échezeaux. The region benefits from a continental climate with sunny, warm summers and cold winters, supporting slow, steady grape maturation. Les Chaumes sits at the foot of the famed slope, on well-drained limestone and clay soils that contribute both perfume and supple texture to the wine. The history of Vosne-Romanée is intrinsically linked to monastic viticulture, and today it is celebrated for producing some of the world’s most sensual and sophisticated Pinot Noirs.

A wine of this calibre and pedigree deserves careful pairing. Its silky tannins, seductive aromas of ripe red berry, violet, and hints of forest floor, along with a subtle spiciness, make it a wonderful companion to classic dishes such as duck breast with cherry sauce, veal tenderloin, or roasted guinea fowl. Equally, it will elevate a traditional Burgundian dish like coq au vin or a simply prepared truffled mushroom risotto. Soft cheeses such as Époisses offer a regional nod and a harmonious partner.

To appreciate all its nuances, decant the wine for 30–60 minutes before enjoying. Serve at 15–17°C in large Burgundy glasses to allow the bouquet to unfurl. This wine has the potential to develop beautifully with five to ten years of cellaring, but can already be appreciated for its youthful harmony and purity.