Domaine Sylvain PATAILLE - Bourgogne Rouge 2024
In Marsannay-la-Côte, at the northern gates of the Côte de Nuits, Sylvain Pataille champions a demanding and deeply personal vision of Burgundy. A trained oenologist, he founded his estate in 1999 and gradually built a vineyard dedicated to expressing the terroirs of Marsannay, of which he has become one of the most recognized interpreters. His approach is based on organic viticulture, accompanied by biodynamic practices, and a particular attention to soil life, grape maturity, and the identity of each parcel. In the cellar, spontaneous fermentations, thoughtful use of whole clusters, and low-intervention aging preserve the character of the fruit without erasing that of its origin. While his Marsannay single-vineyard wines have largely contributed to his reputation, his Bourgogne Rouge reflects the same ambition applied to a regional appellation. Far from being conceived as a simple entry-level wine, it offers a precise and sensitive reading of Burgundy Pinot Noir, favoring aromatic brightness, freshness, and fine texture.
The 2024 Bourgogne Rouge is made from Pinot Noir grown on parcels located in the Marsannay sector, north of the Côte de Nuits. The clay-limestone soils, characteristic of this part of the Burgundy vineyard, provide the grape variety with an environment conducive to producing delicate reds, combining fruit ripeness and natural tension. The vines are carefully worked to promote deep rooting and maintain a vegetative balance adapted to the particularities of each season. After manual harvesting and careful sorting, the vinification favors indigenous yeasts and measured extractions, with a place given to whole clusters depending on grape maturity. This approach preserves the finesse of the tannins while adding an additional aromatic dimension, notably floral and spicy. Aging in wooden containers, without seeking a demonstrative oak influence, then accompanies the softening of the material and the integration of the wine's different components. The 2024 vintage, marked in Burgundy by significant rainfall, strong downy mildew pressure, and often reduced yields, particularly highlighted the meticulous work carried out in the vineyards and the selection of grapes. The result is a Pinot Noir that should favor freshness, delicacy, and aromatic transparency rather than power.
In its youth, Sylvain Pataille's 2024 Bourgogne Rouge should express a particularly clear red fruit, centered on fresh cherry, raspberry, and redcurrant, accompanied by delicate nuances of peony and violet. Upon aeration, fine notes of white pepper, undergrowth, and sweet spices may enrich a bouquet whose charm rests primarily on precision. The palate is distinguished by a supple and slender texture, supported by lively acidity that gives rhythm to the tasting. The tannins, fine and delicately present, structure the whole without ever dominating the fruit, while the finish retains an impression of freshness and lightness. This expression of Pinot Noir, both accessible and nuanced, will naturally find its place at the table, especially alongside roasted poultry, veal filet with mushrooms, pink duck breast, or country terrine. Served slightly chilled, it will reveal all the finesse of its aromatic range and can be appreciated from its first years. A few years of aging will also allow its fruity notes to evolve towards more earthy and spicy nuances, without losing the elegance that characterizes this winemaker's wines.
Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir
