Domaine Bruno Clair Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru 2021

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1979, Domaine Bruno Clair is a family-owned estate based in Marsannay-la-Côte, Burgundy. Bruno Clair, grandson of Joseph Clair of the renowned Clair-Daü estate, established the domaine with holdings in Marsannay, Fixin, and Savigny-lès-Beaune. In 1986, he expanded the estate by inheriting prized vineyards, including Clos de Bèze and Clos Saint-Jacques. Today, the domaine spans over 24 hectares across Burgundy’s top communes, emphasizing sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking to express the unique terroirs of each site.

Producer and Wine Maker

Bruno Clair, the founder and winemaker, is known for his meticulous approach to viticulture and vinification. He employs sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention in the cellar to preserve the purity of the fruit and the character of each vineyard. Clair’s philosophy centers on expressing the nuances of terroir, resulting in wines that are both elegant and profound, reflecting the essence of Burgundy’s finest sites.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru vineyard straddles the communes of Chambolle-Musigny and Morey-Saint-Denis in the Côte de Nuits. Domaine Bruno Clair owns a 1.6413-hectare parcel on the Morey-Saint-Denis side, planted in 1946, 1962, 1978, and 1980. The vineyard’s southeast orientation at an average altitude of 280 meters, combined with its clay-limestone soils and limestone subsoil with entroques and Ostrea acuminata marls, provides optimal conditions for Pinot Noir. The microclimate, characterized by cool temperatures and excellent drainage, contributes to the wine’s complexity and aging potential.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo 30–50% whole bunch fermentation. Maceration lasts 10–15 days in wooden vats, followed by aging for 18–20 months in French oak barrels, approximately 45% of which are new. This approach enhances the wine’s structure and allows the expression of the vineyard’s terroir while maintaining balance and finesse.

Tasting notes

The 2021 Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru exhibits a deep red hue with a complex bouquet of black fruits and spices. On the palate, it offers layers of red and black fruit, complemented by fine tannins and a vibrant acidity. The wine’s powerful and complex profile culminates in a long, elegant finish, showcasing both its storied terroir and the vintage’s precision.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Grand Cru pairs excellently with rich dishes such as roasted duck, game meats, and beef Wellington. Its robust structure and intricate flavors also complement earthy mushroom risottos and aged cheeses like Comté or Époisses, enhancing the dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 14°C to 16°C (57°F to 61°F). Decanting for 1 to 2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its aromatic complexity. Use large Burgundy glasses to fully appreciate its bouquet and texture.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2021 vintage has excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 15 to 25 years, developing greater complexity and depth with time.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.0%

Scores

• Wine Advocate: 93–95

• Robert Parker: 93–95

• James Suckling: 96