Domaine Lécheneaut Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru 2018

Domaine Lécheneaut Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru 2018: A Masterclass in Pinot Noir Elegance

The 2018 Domaine Lécheneaut Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru is a stunning expression of Pinot Noir from one of Burgundy's most celebrated villages. This premier cru bottling exemplifies the hallmarks of Chambolle-Musigny – finesse, perfume, and a captivating complexity.

Vineyard and Vinification:

Domaine Lécheneaut, situated in the heart of Nuits-Saint-Georges, crafts exceptional wines across 18 appellations in the Côte de Nuits. Their meticulously tended 10 hectares of vineyards benefit from limestone-rich soils that impart a distinctive mineral character to the wines.

Grapes for this Chambolle-Musigny are hand-harvested and undergo meticulous sorting to ensure only the finest fruit reaches the fermentation tanks. Traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques are employed, with whole-bunch fermentation enhancing the wine's aromatic profile. The wine matures in oak barrels for a period of 12-18 months, allowing it to develop richness and complexity before bottling.

Tasting Profile:

Aroma:

The 2018 Domaine Lécheneaut Chambolle-Musigny opens with a captivating bouquet. Red fruit notes like cherry, raspberry, and cranberry take centre stage, complemented by hints of spice, such as clove and cinnamon. Floral notes of violets and rose add a touch of elegance, while subtle earthy nuances emerge with time in the glass.

Palate:

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a silky texture. The red fruit flavours from the nose translate beautifully, underpinned by a vibrant acidity that ensures freshness and energy. Fine-grained tannins provide a gentle structure, allowing the wine to unfold gracefully on the tongue. The finish is long and lingering, leaving behind a captivating echo of fruit and spice.

Food Pairing:

The Domaine Lécheneaut Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru 2018 is a versatile food pairing wine. Its elegance and finesse make it perfect for lighter dishes. Here are some suggested pairings:

• Roasted poultry: This wine shines alongside roast chicken, turkey, or duck. The acidity cuts through the richness of the poultry, while the fruit flavours complement the savoury notes.
• Salmon: Salmon, especially when grilled or pan-seared, pairs beautifully with this Pinot Noir. The earthiness in the wine complements the richness of the fish, while the red fruit notes enhance the flavours of the salmon.
• Mushroom dishes: Earthy mushroom dishes find a perfect partner in this Chambolle-Musigny. The wine's earthy undertones and forest floor hints create a harmonious pairing.
• Soft cheeses: A creamy brie or a rich Camembert pairs well with the wine's fruit and structure. The cheese's richness is balanced by the wine's acidity, creating a delightful contrast.

Serving Suggestions:

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Domaine Lécheneaut Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru 2018 at a cool room temperature, ideally between 15-17°C. Decanting the wine for 30-60 minutes can help soften the tannins and further enhance the aromatics.

Cellaring Potential:

This wine is built to age gracefully for several years. While it drinks beautifully now, cellaring it for 5-10 years will allow the flavours to further develop and mature.

Conclusion:

The Domaine Lécheneaut Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru 2018 is a captivating expression of Pinot Noir. Its finesse, perfume, and captivating complexity make it a true testament to the quality wines produced in this prestigious appellation. With its versatility in food pairing and ageing potential, this is a wine that is sure to delight Pinot Noir enthusiasts and discerning wine lovers alike.