Beaune 1er Cru “Les Sizies” 2020 – Domaine de Montille

The 2020 Beaune 1er Cru “Les Sizies” from Domaine de Montille is a remarkable embodiment of the synthesis between a storied terroir and the visionary approach of a venerable Burgundian domaine. This wine, emerging from the renowned Beaune 1er Cru vineyard “Les Sizies,” carries with it the legacy and distinction of Domaine de Montille, a family-run estate celebrated for its dedication to expressing the nuanced character of Burgundy through organic and biodynamic viticulture.

Beaune, the heart of Burgundy’s wine country, is a mosaic of premier cru vineyards, each with its own distinct personality. “Les Sizies” is particularly esteemed for its optimal south-eastern exposure and a soil composition rich in limestone and marl, providing ideal conditions for cultivating Pinot Noir grapes that are expressive, nuanced, and capable of aging gracefully. The 2020 vintage was marked by a growing season that combined warmth and ample sunlight with the crucial cool nights of Burgundy’s climate, fostering a balance of ripeness and acidity in the grapes that is the hallmark of exceptional wine.

Domaine de Montille, with its roots deeply embedded in the history of Burgundian winemaking, approaches the craft with a respect for tradition and an eye towards the future. The domaine’s philosophy centers on a minimal interventionist approach, allowing the unique characteristics of each vineyard to shine through in the wine. This ethos is palpably present in the Beaune 1er Cru “Les Sizies” 2020, a wine that is a testament to the purity of fruit, terroir expression, and elegant structure that Domaine de Montille is renowned for.

Upon pouring, the wine unveils a deep garnet color, radiant and inviting. The nose is immediately greeted with an intricate array of aromas: ripe cherries and strawberries burst forth, complemented by nuances of violet, damp earth, and a hint of oak-derived spice. This aromatic complexity is a prelude to the profound experience awaiting on the palate.

Tasting the Beaune 1er Cru “Les Sizies” 2020 reveals a wine of extraordinary depth and elegance. The lush fruitiness detected on the nose deepens, enveloped by layers of flavor that include hints of plum, black tea, and a delicate minerality that whispers of the limestone bedrock beneath “Les Sizies.” The integration of oak is masterful, adding dimension without overshadowing the wine’s natural vibrancy. The tannins are silky and well-structured, providing a backbone that is both firm and graceful, while the acidity is impeccably balanced, lending freshness and a long, compelling finish.

This wine is a celebration of the vintage, the vineyard, and the domaine’s meticulous approach to winemaking. It reflects the resilience of the vines and the adaptability of the vignerons in the face of the year’s climatic challenges, culminating in a wine that is not only a pleasure to drink but also a profound expression of its origins.

The Beaune 1er Cru “Les Sizies” 2020 is more than just a testament to the skill of Domaine de Montille; it is an invitation to explore the rich tapestry of Burgundy’s terroirs. As it ages, this wine promises to unfold further, revealing new layers of complexity and nuance. It stands as a beacon of the potential inherent in Burgundian Pinot Noir, offering an experience that is both deeply rooted in tradition and vibrantly alive with the possibilities of the future.

In crafting this wine, Domaine de Montille has not only added another chapter to the storied history of Burgundy but has also provided wine enthusiasts with a glimpse into the soul of the region. The Beaune 1er Cru “Les Sizies” 2020 is a wine to be savored and remembered, a harmonious blend of nature’s bounty and human artistry that continues to inspire and captivate with its beauty, complexity, and the unparalleled expression of place.