Viniou Reviews
Domaine La Rochette’s 2019 Cuvée Pinot Noir from Neuchâtel AOC is a vivid illustration of Swiss finesse with Pinot Noir. This wine is fully varietal, harvested from vineyards rooted in the distinctive limestone and marl soils typical of the Neuchâtel region. The 2019 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, marked by moderate temperatures and ample sunshine, allowing for optimal phenolic ripeness while retaining signature freshness. Vinification here is likely traditional, with careful control of maceration to highlight the grape’s delicate fruit, nuance, and the subtle mineral backbone provided by the terroir. Expect a bright ruby hue, with a lifted nose of red cherry, wild strawberry and subtle floral undertones, perhaps even a fine herbal edge. On the palate, it delivers supple tannins, lively acidity and a refined, elegant structure.
Neuchâtel, nestled in French-speaking Switzerland, has a proud winegrowing heritage that spans centuries. The cool continental climate, influenced by Lake Neuchâtel, prolongs the growing season and helps preserve the grape’s acidity and aromatic intensity. The region’s limestone-rich soils suit Pinot Noir especially well, imbuing the wines with a pronounced minerality and finesse. Historically, Neuchâtel has excelled not only with classic dry Pinot Noirs but also with its famed Oeil-de-Perdrix rosé. The region remains slightly under-the-radar internationally, making its best reds excellent discoveries for those seeking purity and distinction.
This Pinot Noir’s elegance recommends pairing it with delicately flavoured dishes. Locally, it would shine alongside lake fish such as perch in a light sauce, traditional Swiss charcuterie, or chicken with morel cream. Its purity makes it equally at home with a mushroom risotto, grilled vegetables, or a mild semi-hard cow’s cheese like Tête de Moine. Its savoury, nuanced palate enhances recipes where earthy and subtle herbal notes take centre stage.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally around 14-16°C. Decant gently for thirty minutes if possible, to allow delicate aromatics to reveal themselves fully. This approach will ensure you appreciate the wine’s finesse, length, and elegant expression of both grape and Swiss terroir.
