Domaine Fabien COCHE - Meursault Rouge 2024
While Meursault owes its international fame to its great white wines, the village maintains a more discreet tradition of red wine production, inherited from the diversity of its terroirs and its viticultural history. Located in the heart of the appellation, Domaine Fabien Coche has been perpetuating a family approach to Burgundian viticulture for several generations. Fabien Coche, who took over the reins of the estate in 2005, cultivates a mosaic of parcels spread notably between Meursault, Pommard, Auxey-Duresses, and Saint-Romain. This diversity allows him to explore different expressions of Pinot Noir, from the structured terroirs of Pommard to the more delicate expressions of Meursault. The reds of this latter appellation remain relatively confidential but possess an interesting identity, often characterized by the finesse of the fruit, freshness, and a measured tannic structure. The Meursault Rouge from the estate illustrates this little-known facet of the Côte de Beaune through an interpretation that favors elegance and terroir expression.
The 2024 Meursault Rouge comes from Pinot Noir vines about forty years old, planted on marl-limestone soils. The estate manages its vineyard organically, with certification obtained starting from the 2023 vintage. This approach is accompanied by particular attention to soil balance and yield control to preserve grape quality. In the cellar, Fabien Coche favors gentle extraction, notably through vinification under submerged cap, without punching down or intensive remontage. This method promotes a gradual diffusion of color and aromatic compounds while avoiding hardening the tannins. Aging then takes place in oak barrels for about eleven to fifteen months, with a limited proportion of new wood, followed by an additional refinement period. In the context of the 2024 vintage, marked by demanding climatic conditions, this approach particularly highlights the freshness of Pinot Noir and the finesse of its structure.
This 2024 Meursault Rouge presents a delicate profile, built around the purity of the fruit and a particularly charming floral expression. Its bright ruby robe announces a bouquet of Morello cherry, wild raspberry, and redcurrant, progressively enriched with notes of peony, fine pepper, and licorice. On the palate, the attack is supple, supported by vibrant red fruit and acidity that immediately brings energy. The tannins, fine and delicately drawn, accompany a fluid body without seeking excessive concentration. The finish retains a pleasant freshness, extended by spicy nuances and a discreet chalky sensation. A few years of aging will allow the wine to develop more complexity, notably notes of undergrowth and sweet spices. It will pair particularly well with roasted duckling, veal fillet with mushrooms, farm poultry, or a porcini risotto, matches that will respect its finesse while highlighting its aromatic depth.
Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir