Domaine Florent Garaudet Monthélie Vieilles Vignes AOC 2020

Winery Background and History

Domaine Florent Garaudet, located in the heart of Monthélie in Burgundy, France, is a family-owned estate with a winemaking heritage spanning five generations. After completing his viticulture studies in Beaune and gaining experience in the Languedoc and Pomerol regions, Florent Garaudet returned to his roots to establish his own domaine. Starting with just 2 hectares, he has expanded the estate to 11.5 hectares as of 2020, focusing on producing wines that embody the elegance and complexity characteristic of the Monthélie appellation.

Producer and Winemaker

Florent Garaudet serves as both the proprietor and winemaker of the domaine. His approach combines traditional Burgundian techniques with insights gained from his experiences in other French wine regions. Committed to sustainable viticulture, Florent emphasizes minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the cellar, allowing the terroir to express itself fully in each bottle. His dedication to quality and authenticity has positioned Domaine Florent Garaudet as a notable producer within the Monthélie appellation.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The “Vieilles Vignes” cuvée is sourced from three plots totaling approximately 1 hectare, planted with vines averaging 55 years of age. Situated between Volnay and Meursault, the vineyards benefit from south and southeast-facing slopes, ensuring optimal sun exposure. The region’s continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, coupled with well-draining limestone and clay soils, creates an environment conducive to producing Pinot Noir with depth and finesse.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Pinot Noir

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2020 vintage involved sustainable vineyard practices, including hand-harvesting and careful handling of the grapes to preserve their integrity. Fermentation was conducted using traditional methods, followed by aging for 12 months in French oak barrels, with 30% being new oak. This regimen imparts subtle oak influences while allowing the purity of the fruit to remain at the forefront. The wine was then bottled without filtration to maintain its natural character.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Information not specified.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Monthélie Vieilles Vignes presents a deep ruby hue. On the nose, it offers a delicate bouquet of cassis and redcurrant, complemented by subtle underbrush nuances. The palate is well-structured and concentrated, with finely extracted tannins providing a harmonious balance. Flavors of dark cherry and minerality are evident, leading to a persistent finish. While initially reserved aromatically, the wine opens up beautifully, suggesting excellent aging potential.

Food & Wine Pairing

This elegant Pinot Noir pairs well with a variety of dishes. Its balanced acidity and refined tannins make it an excellent match for roasted duck, pork tenderloin, or poultry dishes with rich sauces. The wine’s subtle earthiness also complements mushroom-based dishes and aged cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its complexity, serve the 2020 Monthélie Vieilles Vignes at a temperature between 15°C and 16°C (59°F to 61°F). Decanting for approximately 30 minutes prior to serving can help the wine open up, revealing its aromatic depth and allowing the tannins to soften. Utilizing Burgundy-style stemware will further enhance the wine’s expressive bouquet and elegant palate.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under optimal conditions—away from direct light, at a consistent temperature around 12°C (54°F), and with moderate humidity—the 2020 Monthélie Vieilles Vignes is expected to develop further complexity over the next 5 to 7 years. As it matures, tertiary notes such as forest floor, truffle, and dried fruits are anticipated to emerge, adding depth to its existing flavor profile. This wine offers both immediate enjoyment and rewarding potential for those who choose to cellar it.