Domaine Michel Noellat Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Aux Boudo 2020

Winery Background and History

Founded in the early 20th century, Domaine Michel Noëllat & Fils is a family-run estate based in Vosne-Romanée, Burgundy. Now managed by the fifth generation, the domaine cultivates approximately 27 hectares across 22 appellations, including prestigious Grand Crus like Clos de Vougeot and Echézeaux. Known for blending traditional Burgundian methods with modern techniques, the estate emphasizes terroir expression and meticulous vineyard management.

Producer and Winemaker

The estate is currently overseen by Sophie Noëllat, who continues the family’s legacy of producing elegant and terroir-driven wines. The winemaking approach involves careful grape selection, destemming, and moderate extraction to highlight the purity and finesse of Pinot Noir. Aging is conducted in French oak barrels, balancing new and seasoned wood to complement the wine’s character.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The “Aux Boudots” vineyard is a Premier Cru site located in Nuits-Saint-Georges, within the Côte de Nuits sub-region of Burgundy. Situated on the northern border of the appellation, adjacent to Vosne-Romanée, the vineyard benefits from a unique terroir that combines the power of Nuits-Saint-Georges with the finesse of Vosne-Romanée. The soils are predominantly limestone and clay, and the region experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cool winters, ideal for cultivating Pinot Noir.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a cold pre-fermentation maceration to enhance aromatic complexity. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled vats, followed by aging in French oak barrels, with a portion being new oak. This process aims to preserve the wine’s freshness while adding subtle oak nuances.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Aux Boudots presents a well-defined bouquet with dark cherry and cassis fruit, complemented by pressed violets that emerge with aeration. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fleshy, ripe red fruit, good depth, and Vosne-like qualities, including touches of dark chocolate and tobacco on the finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Premier Cru pairs excellently with rich dishes such as roasted duck, beef Wellington, or lamb shanks. 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 2020 Aux Boudots has the potential to age gracefully over the next 10–15 years. Proper cellaring in a cool, dark environment will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and tertiary aromas.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Pinot Noir: 100%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5% 

Scores

• Vinous: 90 points