Domaine Faiveley Beaune 1er Cru Clos de l’Écu Monopole 2022

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1825, Domaine Faiveley is a family-owned estate based in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Burgundy. Now under the stewardship of Erwan Faiveley, the seventh generation, the domaine has expanded its holdings to include prestigious vineyards across the Côte d’Or. With a commitment to traditional winemaking and sustainable viticulture, Faiveley produces wines that reflect the unique terroirs of Burgundy.

Producer and Winemaker

Erwan Faiveley has modernized the estate since taking over in 2005, focusing on precision and elegance in winemaking. Collaborating with technical director Jérôme Flous, the team emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the expression of each vineyard’s character. Their approach combines traditional methods with modern techniques to produce wines of depth and finesse.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The ‘Clos de l’Écu’ is a walled monopole vineyard located on the northern slopes of Beaune. Its stony soils and high elevation contribute to the wine’s brightness and tension. The vineyard benefits from a continental climate, with warm summers and cool winters, ideal for cultivating Pinot Noir with complexity and balance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo fermentation with partial whole clusters. The wine is aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, 30% of which are new. This aging process imparts subtle oak nuances while preserving the wine’s purity and structure.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 vintage displays a deep ruby color with aromas of red and black fruits, including raspberry and cherry, complemented by floral notes. On the palate, it is lively and spicy, with hints of menthol and fine tannins. The wine is medium to full-bodied, offering a harmonious balance between fruit and structure, leading to a long, elegant finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Pinot Noir pairs well with dishes such as duck breast, veal shank, slow-roasted lamb, and beef fillet. Its vibrant acidity and refined tannins also complement mushroom-based dishes and aged cheeses, enhancing the dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F) in Burgundy-style glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity. Decanting for 30 minutes prior to serving can help open up the wine’s bouquet and soften its tannins.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2022 vintage is approachable now but will benefit from 5 to 10 years of cellaring, during which it will develop additional complexity and depth.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%

Scores

• Wine Advocate: 93 points

• Robert Parker: 93 points

• James Suckling: 93–94 points