Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru “Aux Thorey” 2021 – Domaine de Montille

The 2020 Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru “Aux Thorey” from Domaine de Montille is not just a wine; it’s a narrative that encapsulates the essence of one of Burgundy’s most storied appellations, crafted by a domaine that has become synonymous with the pursuit of purity, elegance, and expressive terroir-driven winemaking. This Pinot Noir is a testament to the unique alchemy between the varietal and the distinctive terroir of “Aux Thorey,” a vineyard renowned for its ability to produce wines of profound depth and complexity.

Domaine de Montille, a beacon of Burgundian excellence, has long been revered for its commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, a philosophy that extends beyond the vineyard to encompass a holistic approach to winemaking. The 2020 vintage, characterized by its climatic challenges and triumphs, stands as a testament to the resilience of the terroir and the meticulous care and adaptability of the domaine’s team. Despite the hurdles presented by the weather, the vintage yielded grapes of exceptional quality, marked by their concentration, balance, and aromatic richness.

Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru “Aux Thorey” is situated on the northern side of Nuits-Saint-Georges, a location that benefits from a unique combination of limestone and marl soils, contributing to the wine’s distinctive mineral undertones and structured complexity. The domaine’s approach to viticulture, characterized by a respect for the land and a commitment to showcasing the vineyard’s individual character, shines through in the meticulous selection and harvesting of the grapes.

Upon pouring, the wine reveals a deep ruby hue, a prelude to the olfactory journey that awaits. The bouquet is a rich tapestry of aromas, where ripe red and black fruits—cherries, blackberries, and plums—meld with nuances of spice, earth, and a delicate floral lift. This aromatic complexity is indicative of the “Aux Thorey” terroir, showcasing the vineyard’s capacity to produce Pinot Noir of exceptional depth and nuance.

On the palate, the Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru “Aux Thorey” 2020 reveals itself to be both powerful and refined. The lush fruit flavors are perfectly complemented by a vibrant acidity that lends the wine freshness and dynamism, while the well-integrated tannins provide a framework that is both firm and silky. The minerality, so characteristic of the vineyard, is palpable, adding a layer of complexity that weaves through the wine, contributing to a long, nuanced finish that continues to evolve with each sip.

This wine is more than an expression of Pinot Noir; it is a reflection of the unique terroir of “Aux Thorey,” the challenges and triumphs of the 2020 vintage, and the vision and craftsmanship of Domaine de Montille. Each bottle is a testament to the domaine’s dedication to producing wines that are not only reflective of their origins but also of the legacy and future of Burgundian winemaking.

As the Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru “Aux Thorey” 2020 matures, it promises to reveal new dimensions of its character, further solidifying its place among the exemplary wines of Burgundy. It invites wine lovers to explore the depth and diversity of the region’s terroirs, offering a drinking experience that is both enriching and immensely pleasurable.

In crafting this wine, Domaine de Montille has not only captured the essence of the Nuits-Saint-Georges appellation but has also provided a window into the heart of Burgundy, a region that continues to captivate and inspire wine lovers around the world with its beauty, complexity, and unparalleled expressions of place. The Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru “Aux Thorey” 2020 stands as a celebration of the land, the vine, and the human endeavor that unites them, offering a glimpse into the enduring legacy and future of Burgundian winemaking. It is a harmonious blend of nature’s bounty and artisanal craftsmanship, a testament to the potential of Burgundy’s Pinot Noir to convey the nuances and richness of its origins with elegance and depth.