Domaine Castagnier Clos de la Roche Grand Cru 2022

Winery Background and History

Domaine Castagnier, located in Morey-Saint-Denis in Burgundy’s Côte de Nuits, is a family-run estate with a history spanning five generations. Under the stewardship of Jérôme Castagnier, the domaine has revitalized its winemaking approach, emphasizing traditional methods and sustainable viticulture. With holdings in several Grand Cru vineyards, including Clos de la Roche, the estate is renowned for producing wines that reflect the unique terroirs of Burgundy.

Producer and Winemaker

Jérôme Castagnier, a former professional musician, brings a meticulous and artistic approach to winemaking. He focuses on sustainable practices and minimal intervention, aiming to express the purity and elegance of Pinot Noir. Under his guidance, Domaine Castagnier has gained recognition for crafting wines that balance tradition with modern precision.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Clos de la Roche Grand Cru vineyard is situated in Morey-Saint-Denis, within the Côte de Nuits sub-region of Burgundy. Domaine Castagnier’s 0.60-hectare parcel lies within the lieux-dits Les Fremières and Les Mochamps, at approximately 280 meters altitude. The terroir is characterized by very shallow, rocky soils, contributing to the wine’s structure and minerality. The semi-continental climate, with warm days and cool nights, allows for optimal ripening of Pinot Noir grapes. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and sorted before fermentation. Depending on the vintage, 60–100% of the grapes are destemmed. Fermentation occurs with ambient yeasts in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged for 16–17 months in French oak barrels, with approximately 40% new oak used, enhancing depth and structure without overpowering the wine’s character. 

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru exhibits a deep crimson hue and offers intense aromas of dark fruits, including ripe raspberries and sun-dried cherries, complemented by notes of cedar and baking spices. On the palate, it is full-bodied and concentrated, with firm tannins and a persistent finish, showcasing the power and opulence characteristic of the vintage.

Food & Wine Pairing

This robust Pinot Noir pairs well with rich meats such as beef, lamb, and game. Dishes like roasted duck, venison stew, or beef Wellington complement its depth and complexity. Aged cheeses, particularly those with earthy flavors, also make excellent accompaniments.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve this wine at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and texture. Decanting for 1–2 hours before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full bouquet and flavor profile. Use large Burgundy glasses to enhance the tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru has the structure and concentration to age gracefully for 10–15 years. Proper cellaring conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature—will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and depth over time, revealing nuanced flavors and aromas.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 13.5%

Scores

• Jasper Morris (Inside Burgundy): 94–96/100