Rully 1er Cru Cloux red 2023 Domaine de Villaine | Burgundy

Description: Rully 1er Cru Cloux Red 2023 | Domaine de Villaine

The 2023 Rully 1er Cru Cloux Red from Domaine de Villaine holds a unique place in the wine estate’s lineup. Located below the estate’s two other premier crus, Raclot and Rabourcé, the Cloux vineyard benefits from a steep slope facing east and southeast. This exposure has earned it a reputation as one of the finest terroirs inthe Rully appellation. Domaine de Villaine is a pioneer here: its conversion to organic viticulture in 1986 speaks volumes about the wine estate’s philosophy.

Terroir and Grape Variety

The clay-limestone soil is well-drained on the surface but deep enough for the Pinot Noir to draw out a distinct minerality. The steep slope concentrates the morning sun’s rays while promoting natural drainage. This ideal combination shapes the wine’s fruity and taut character. The 2023 vintage brings its solar warmth without losing any of the plot’s natural freshness.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The wine estate practices certified organic farming, complemented by a biodynamic approach. The grapes are harvested by hand, with meticulous sorting in the vineyard. In the cellar, soft maceration lasts 15 to 20 days, and fermentation is carried out by indigenous yeasts.Ageing takes place over 12 to 18 months in oak barrels, 20 to 30% of which are new barrels to add structure without overpowering the wine.

Rully 1er Cru Cloux Red 2023 | Domaine de Villaine: The Sommelier’s Review

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin This 2023 Cloux is a Pinot Noir from southern Burgundy at its purest. The fruit is immediate, almost ethereal, just as the wine estate’s description honestly suggests. But there is an underlying depth that the barrel ageing is beginning to weave. The wine is expected to reach its peak drinking period between 2028 and 2033: this is the window to keep in mind, even though the wine is already a pleasure to drink today after an hour of decanting at 16°C. For those who are patient, the aromatic notes will become more subtle and complex. Le Cloux is a wine that rewards patience without requiring it.

The Nose

The nose opens with crisp, fresh notes of raspberry and red currant. A hint of black pepper adds a spicy kick. As the wine breathes, the clay-limestone terroir begins to reveal itself: a subtle minerality emerges in the background, lending the aromatic profile its structure.

Palate

On the palate, the attack is supple, almost silky. The fine tannins integrate smoothly, supported by well-balanced acidity that extends the finish. The fruity persistence remains at the forefront, complemented by a subtle woody note from the barrels. The overall impression is vibrant and balanced. The mouthwatering finish invites you to take another sip.

Rully 1er Cru: Everything You Need to Know About This Appellation

Rully is one of the northernmost appellations of the Côte Chalonnaise in Burgundy. Its clay-limestone soils and well-exposed slopes allow Pinot Noir to produce refined red wines, often fresher and more taut than those of the neighboring Côte de Beaune. The appellation boasts several renowned Premier Crus, including the Cloux climat, which ranks among the most highly regarded for reds. This Rully Premier Cru Cloux from Domaine de Villaine is a fine example of the freshness, definition, and effortless elegance typical of the appellation.