Domaine A.P. Villaine Rully Les Champs Cloux 1er cru

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

The Rully Les Champs Cloux by Domaine A.P. Villaine is a Pinot Noir from Burgundy, aged in older barrels. It has a medium body and a deep crimson color. Bright and lively, it scored a 91 on Robert Parker. On the nose, it has wonderful notes of raspberries and red currant, with notes of plum, dark chocolate, and spices. On the palate, it is powerful and fresh, with chalky tannins and a slight acidity.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

The Domaine A.P. Villaine Rully Les Champs Clous 1er cru is great to pair with cheeses like Chaource or Vacherin, as well as cured meats. For entrees, enjoy it with braised beef, a veal dish, or a roast duck.

A RELUCTANT VIGNERON

A reluctant hero in the world of wine, Aubert de Villaine grew up the heir of wine legacy, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. As a young man, he was never as interested in wine as an heir was expected to be, instead, pursuing interests in literature and law. He spent some time in New York working for a Burgundian wine importer, but returned home to become co-director of Romanée-Conti.

In 1971, he and his American wife, Pamela, settled in Bouzeron, a village in the Côte Chalonnaise. He began to make his own wines, away from the holds of international reputation. It was a rundown domaine when Aubert and Pamela first arrived, but with determination, they studied their unique terroir, and have become pioneers in what was once a forgotten Burgundy enclave. Today, it is Aubert’s nephew, Pierre de Benoist, that directs and handles the domaine. Aubert is still there, proudly watching Pierre continue and uphold the traditions of excellence.

Storage Instructions

Store unopened red wines in a cool, dry, and dark place safe from constant vibration. Keep your bottle horizontal in a wine rack or cellar to retain the moistness of the cork. The ideal temperature for storage is between 16 to 18°C. Once opened, a bottle will be good for 3 to 5 days standing upright in the refrigerator.