Domaine Bertagna Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Les Murgers 2021

Winery Background and History

Domaine Bertagna, located in Vougeot, Burgundy, has a rich history dating back to the 13th century when its vineyards were tended by Cistercian monks. In 1982, the estate was acquired by the Reh family, with Eva Reh-Siddle taking over management in 1988. Under her leadership, the domaine has emphasized terroir expression, investing in modern winemaking techniques while respecting traditional practices. Today, Domaine Bertagna spans 20 hectares, producing wines from 18 appellations, including five Grands Crus and seven Premiers Crus, showcasing the diversity and quality of Burgundy’s Côte de Nuits region. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Eva Reh-Siddle, a member of the Reh family, has been at the helm of Domaine Bertagna since 1988. With a background in both viticulture and business, she has modernized the estate’s operations, focusing on sustainable practices and precision winemaking. Eva’s philosophy centers on capturing the unique character of each vineyard, producing wines that reflect their specific terroirs. Her commitment to quality and innovation has positioned Domaine Bertagna as a leading producer in Burgundy.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Les Murgers vineyard is a Premier Cru site located on the Vosne-Romanée side of Nuits-Saint-Georges. Situated mid-slope, it benefits from deep mineral soils mixed with limestone rocks, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the wine’s structure. The continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, allows for optimal ripening of Pinot Noir grapes, resulting in wines with depth, elegance, and aging potential. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a strict selection process both in the vineyard and at the winery. A cold pre-fermentation maceration is followed by alcoholic fermentation using natural yeasts at controlled temperatures. Manual punch-downs are employed to gently extract color and tannins. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrels and is aged for 12 to 15 months in French oak barrels, with 25% being new oak, to enhance complexity while preserving the purity of fruit. 

Tasting notes

The 2021 Les Murgers exhibits delicate aromas of red berries, leading to an intense and full-bodied palate dominated by berry flavors. The wine is rounded with present tannins, faithful to the style of the terroir, offering a harmonious balance between fruit and structure. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Premier Cru pairs excellently with roasted chicken, duck, quiches, and a variety of cheeses such as gouda, gruyere, and light cheddar. Its depth and complexity also complement earthy flavors found in mushroom-based dishes and aged cheeses like Comté or Époisses. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C (60–64°F)

• Decanting: Recommended for 1–2 hours to allow the wine to open up and reveal its complex aromas and flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

While approachable in its youth, the 2021 Les Murgers has the potential to age gracefully over the next 8–10 years. Proper cellaring in a cool, dark environment will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and tertiary aromas.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%