Presentation
Located in Vosne-Romanée, Domaine Michel Noëllat traces its roots back to the 19th century with Félix Noëllat, a family pioneer. Since then, five generations have succeeded, combining heritage and modernity. The estate's evolution is illustrated by constant investments: in 1980, a vaulted stone cellar was dug under the property, and in 2007, an ultra-modern winery equipped with thermo-regulated stainless steel tanks was established. Since 2012, vineyard management has been handled by Sébastien Noëllat (responsible for viticulture and vinification) and his cousin Sophie, who oversees the commercial side. The vines, cultivated using sustainable practices, cover several prestigious appellations, including Vosne-Romanée, Chambolle-Musigny, and Clos de Vougeot. The reds are aged for 18 months in oak barrels, with meticulous work on extraction and aging. What makes it famous? Powerful and refined wines with a distinctive aromatic signature, blending bright fruit and silky textures.
Location
The Savigny-lès-Beaune vineyard of Domaine Michel Noëllat lies north of Beaune, at the entrance of the Rhoin Valley, between Pernand-Vergelesses and Aloxe-Corton. The plots are planted mid-slope, facing east and southeast, enjoying regular sunshine and cool air currents that allow slow, even ripening of the Pinot Noir. This geographical setting results in wines that are balanced, fresh, and perfumed.
Terroir
The soils consist of brown clay mixed with limestone scree, sometimes rich in iron. These well-drained soils promote deep rooting and vibrant aromatic expression. Limestone adds finesse and freshness, while clay brings roundness and depth. This diversity of terroir gives rise to elegant, supple wines that showcase the delicacy of Pinot Noir.
In the vineyard
The estate follows a sustainable approach to viticulture, respecting biodiversity and soil life. No chemical herbicides are used, soils are tilled, and treatments are limited to what is strictly necessary. The goal is to preserve the natural balance of the vineyard and produce healthy, concentrated grapes that faithfully reflect their origin.
Harvest
Harvesting is done by hand with careful sorting in the vineyard. Grapes are picked at optimal ripeness and placed in small crates to avoid crushing. This meticulous handling ensures the integrity of the fruit and the quality of the juice brought to the winery.
Winemaking
Vinification takes place in open vats, with partial destemming depending on the vintage. Fermentation uses native yeasts and includes gentle punch-downs and pump-overs to extract color and tannins. Maceration lasts about 18 days.
Ageing
The wine is aged in oak barrels for 14 to 16 months, with around 20% new oak to preserve fruit expression and terroir finesse.
Varietal
Pinot Noir : 100%
Specifications
Production volume : 80 000
Age of vines : 40 years old
Serving
Serve between 13°C and 15°C to fully express the wine’s aromatic complexity and silky texture.
Ageing potential
5 to 10 years
Tasting
This Savigny-lès-Beaune Rouge from Domaine Michel Noëllat reveals a bright cherry-colored robe with ruby highlights. The nose is direct and charming, offering aromas of raspberry, black cherry, and redcurrant, supported by subtle woody notes and a hint of sweet spice. On the palate, the wine is supple and round, with a generous fruit core and fine tannic structure. The finish is persistent, fresh, and lightly tinged with licorice, delivering a typical and elegant expression of red wines from the Côte de Beaune.
Food pairings
This wine pairs beautifully with delicate yet flavourful dishes. It’s a perfect match for herb-roasted farm chicken, where the tender meat highlights the wine’s freshness. A root vegetable and caramelised onion tart with thyme and black pepper makes for a refined vegetarian pairing. On the sweet side, a fig and almond tart enhances the wine’s fruit and spice notes. A mature Reblochon cheese rounds out the experience with richness and balance.