Domaine du Cellier aux Moines : Givry 1er cru "Clos du Cellier aux Moines" 2016

The 2016 Givry 1er Cru Clos du Cellier Aux Moines comes from the estate’s first vintage in organic conversion. It shows a still-youthful, reserved bouquet of dark berries and loamy soil. Medium-bodied, it offers tangy acidity, but without an abundance of flesh to cloak its structural frame, though it may round out with time.

The Pascals introduced organic farming in 2016, which may explain its success in that tricky vintage. The only problem: it follows the 2015. Captivating savoury notes—that not-just-fruit character—are apparent and mingle with dark cherry-like fruitiness. Suave texture, now a hallmark of the domaine since 2015, adds to its appeal. Ever so slightly less elegant than the 2015, it is nonetheless, an incredibly appealing young wine.

Very pretty, sweet aromas of flowers and ripe strawberries with some honey as well. Medium-bodied with firm, silky tannins that are fine and polished. Bright, tangy finish. Lots of energy at the end of the palate. Drink or hold.

A very interesting blend of the different parcel components within the same clos. Depth, complexity, length, with the cool, velvety feel of a rose petal.

Clos du Cellier aux Moines is a benchmark Pinot Noir—refined, juicy and precise—showing great density and perfectly judged oak: an elegant raspberry coulis.