Domaine Pillot - Clos des Montaigus 2007 Tasting Notes

Mercurey rouge Premier Cru Clos des Montaigus 2004

One of the benefits of waiting over two years from the time the grapes were picked until releasing the wine, is that it allows the growing season of the vintage to be viewed in perspective and removes the guesswork of what a wine still in the barrel might actually taste like at your table.  Our exclusive Clos des Montaigus Premier Cru had already spent almost eighteen months in oak casks (40% new) before it was bottled, and then more than nine months have elapsed before offering it to Partners.  So we don’t have to guess, we know what it will taste like when you receive it – and what a treat!

This year our Clos des Montaigus comes from the classic vintage of 2004.  Its two predecessor vintages (2002 and 2003) earned Bronze Medals at the prestigious London International Wine Challenge. With still a hint of tannin, which heralds good prospects for ageing, our unique Premier Cru is full of the dark fruit flavours of blackberries, blackcurrants and cherries. Its balance of concentration, length and acidity will allow it to develop in complexity and depth over 8–10 years in the bottle if carefully cellared.  

You could happily drink it on its own, but as the gastronomic tradition in Burgundy is almost as long established as its reputation for fine wines, why not try your Clos des Montaigus with some classic Burgundian recipes?  The most obvious are Boeuf Bourguignon and other casseroles of beef in thick, creamy sauces, but the delicious list is almost endless.  Try it with roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, or, when starting a meal à la française – poached eggs in red wine (oeufs en meurette), or braised ham in parsley jelly (jambon persillé).  This wine is not for parties and thirsty friends, but to be relished by you and your closest soulmates sharing together what the French call a bon moment.  Enjoy.