Presentation
As its name indicates, “Clos de la Roche” ("Rock") is suitably named. This is one of the rockiest, stoniest climats of the Cote. A shallow, but well-drained layer of red earth covers extremely hard rocky beds that wear out ploughs. Clos de la Roche wines ally unrivalled depth and freshness and have long been among the favourites of the Delaunay family who have always maintained faithful friendships within the village of Morey-Saint-Denis.
Terroir
This 16 hectares Grand Cru appellation is splendidly located north of the village of Morey-Saint-Denis, just a stone’s throw from the Chambertins. Enjoying eastern exposure on an even slope at an average altitude of 250 metres, the vines benefit from the finest conditions. Our Clos de la Roche hails from a plot that is approximately sixty years old, straddling Mauchamps and Fremières, where the soil is at its shallowest.
Winemaking
After manual harvesting and meticulous sorting, the grapes were partially destemmed, with 50% whole clusters included in the cuvée. Following gravity-fed vatting, fermentation began gently with indigenous yeasts. Maceration lasted 20 days, with daily pump-overs and minimal punch-downs to preserve the integrity of the fruit, especially toward the end of vatting. This limited-production cuvée was initially aged in a new oak barrel, then racked and transferred to a one-year-old barrel after six months. The total aging period lasted 17.5 months.
Varietal
Pinot Noir : 100%
Specifications
Alcohol content : 13 % vol.
Production volume : 278 BOTTLES, 9 MAGNUMS
Tasting
Beautiful deep, brilliant ruby color. The first nose is airy and lifted, with fresh scents of verbena, yuzu, and blood orange. A soft raspberry aroma follows, enhanced by a touch of tangy freshness. The bouquet then evolves into warm and complex nuances—cigar, coffee bean, beeswax, and noble wood—bringing depth and elegance. A mineral waft of warm stone and flint completes the aromatic profile. On the palate, the wine opens with a dense yet elegant attack, both smooth and structured, supported by vibrant acidity and well-integrated, present tannins. Spicy notes of Sichuan pepper and tonka bean unfold. The finish is mineral, almost stony, perfectly reflecting the character of its rocky terroir. A truly fine wine with excellent ageing potential.
Food pairings
Enjoy with strong, spicy dishes. A perfect match for game or confit lamb. It is also excellent with strong cheeses such as Citeaux, Reblochon or Vacherin.