Description
The 2017 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru « Aux Petites Noix » from Domaine Stéphane Magnien is a standout red wine from the Côte de Nuits, Burgundy. Domaine Stéphane Magnien, a family-owned estate, follows traditional Burgundy winemaking practices, creating wines that reflect the purity of the terroir. The vineyard « Aux Petites Noix » is a prime premier cru site, located next to some of the most prestigious grand crus in the region. This 2017 vintage, produced in ideal conditions, is characterized by elegance, structure, and depth. The wine combines the finesse of Pinot Noir with the intensity that comes from old vines, resulting in an expressive and balanced wine.
Blend
Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, this premier cru benefits from the unique terroir of Morey-Saint-Denis. The old vines in the vineyard enhance the wine’s aromatic complexity and provide concentrated flavors.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Bright ruby red with garnet hues, signaling youth and vibrancy while suggesting aging potential.
Nose: The nose is highly expressive and nuanced, with an inviting bouquet of fresh red fruits such as cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry. These fruit aromas are complemented by elegant floral notes, including peony and rose petals. Subtle layers of spice, such as white pepper and clove, along with earthy undertones of forest floor and mushrooms, further enrich the aromatic profile.
Palate: On the palate, the wine is remarkably elegant and well-balanced, with a silky, velvety texture. The vibrant red fruit flavors are seamlessly integrated with notes of spice and minerality. Fine-grained tannins add structure without overpowering the delicate profile of the wine, and the freshness on the finish provides a lively contrast to the rich, complex flavors. The finish is long and persistent, with a subtle minerality that reflects the unique terroir.
Aging Potential
The 2017 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru « Aux Petites Noix » has excellent aging potential. Although it is enjoyable in its youth due to its fresh fruit and vibrancy, this wine will continue to develop over time, gaining complexity, depth, and harmony. It can be cellared for 10 to 15 years, or longer, allowing the tannins to soften and the aromatic profile to become more integrated and refined.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, particularly those that showcase rich and earthy flavors. It is an excellent match for red meats such as beef fillet, lamb leg, or duck breast. The wine’s earthy and spicy notes also make it a perfect complement to mushroom-based dishes, game, and stews like coq au vin or beef bourguignon. For cheese lovers, aged varieties such as Comté, Brie de Meaux, or Reblochon enhance the wine’s complexity and bring out its nuanced flavors.
