Domaine Faiveley Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens 2022

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1825, Domaine Faiveley is a family-owned estate based in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Burgundy. Over seven generations, the Faiveley family has expanded their holdings to encompass over 120 hectares, making them one of the largest vineyard owners in Burgundy. Their commitment to traditional winemaking techniques, combined with modern innovations, has solidified their reputation for producing wines that reflect the unique terroirs of the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune.

Producer and Winemaker

Currently led by Erwan Faiveley, the domaine emphasizes sustainable viticulture and precise winemaking. The winemaking team focuses on minimal intervention, allowing the character of each vineyard to shine through. Their approach includes careful selection of grapes, gentle extraction methods, and aging in French oak barrels to enhance the complexity and structure of their wines.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The “Les Rugiens” vineyard is situated in the village of Pommard, neighboring Beaune in the Côte de Beaune. This Premier Cru climat is divided into two parts, with Domaine Faiveley’s 0.50-hectare plot located in Rugiens Hauts, the more esteemed section. Planted in 1953, the vineyard features scree and iron-rich marl soils with east and southeast exposures, contributing to the wine’s structure and minerality. The region’s continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, provides optimal conditions for Pinot Noir cultivation. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and sorted to ensure quality. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, with daily punch-downs to extract color, tannins, and aromas. After a 19-day maceration, the wine is aged for 14 months in French oak barrels, one-third of which are new. This aging process enhances the wine’s complexity and allows for integration of oak flavors without overpowering the fruit. 

Tasting Notes

The 2022 vintage presents a deep ruby red hue. The nose and palate are in perfect harmony, revealing aromas of black fruits, oak, and spice. The attack is powerful, underpinned by direct, velvety tannins. This wine offers good structure and aromatic persistency. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This robust Pinot Noir pairs excellently with rich dishes such as roast duck, venison, and beef bourguignon. Its structured tannins and vibrant acidity complement the flavors of game meats and hearty stews. For cheese pairings, consider aged varieties like Comté or Gruyère to match the wine’s depth and complexity.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F) in large Burgundy-style glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity. Decanting for 1 to 2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its nuanced flavors. This preparation enhances the tasting experience, highlighting the wine’s elegance and depth.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2022 vintage has excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years. Over time, the wine will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes such as dried fruits, forest floor, and subtle spice emerging, enhancing its depth and richness.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14%

Scores

• James Suckling: 95