Nuits-Saint-Georges AOC 1er Cru Clos des Porrets 2022 Domaine Henri Gouges

What type of wine is it

Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Clos des Porrets from Domaine Henri Gouges is a still red wine produced in Burgundy exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes. Classified as Premier Cru and from a monopole, it stands out for its innate finesse, structural balance, and notable aging potential. The winemaking process favours minimal intervention, while aging in oak barriques further imparts aromatic complexity without ever overpowering the fruit’s purity. The result is a medium-bodied sip where softness and freshness blend harmoniously.

Where it comes from

This wine originates from Clos des Porrets, a parcel of over three hectares owned exclusively by Domaine Henri Gouges in the village of Nuits-Saint-Georges, in Burgundy. The vineyard lies just below the Les Perrières area, an historically significant site connected to the old local well, and is distinguished by a unique gravelly and limestone soil with abundant clay content. This geological combination is essential in crafting age-worthy wines that display remarkable elegance on the palate and retain a clear, defined sense of place over time.

How it is made

Production begins with a manual harvest of only Pinot Noir grapes, followed by gravity-assisted vinification designed to interfere as little as possible with the raw material. After fermentation, the wine matures in partly new oak barriques for a period ranging from ten to eighteen months. This careful management of maturation encourages a slow and progressive integration of the wood, which supports the structure of the red wine and preserves its vibrant fruitiness for future bottle aging.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it displays a deep ruby red colour, with hues reflecting the concentration typical of its terroir. The bouquet is multilayered, offering aromas of blackcurrant, raspberry, and plum, enhanced by subtle spicy notes derived from barrel aging. On the palate, it reveals a medium structure, supported by a pleasing softness that is perfectly balanced by a lively freshness. The sip proceeds neatly to an elegant and well-balanced finish, marked by a long and precise persistence.

Food pairings

Its gastronomic vocation makes it ideal for accompanying red meats and elaborate game-based dishes. The medium structure and vibrant acidity balance the juiciness of grilled cuts or dishes served with rich sauces. Regionally, it pairs delightfully with classic boeuf bourguignon and traditional braised specialties of French cuisine. The spicy nuances and distinct dark fruit harmonize beautifully with reductions and cooking bases, enhancing the flavours of each dish.

When to serve

It is the right choice for pairing with lunches and dinners featuring richly flavoured meats, ensuring a refined and precise tasting experience. It can be enjoyed in the medium term thanks to its pronounced freshness, but has a clear aptitude for aging that rewards cellaring, allowing the fruit and wood to meld even further. Before pouring, it is advisable to give the wine proper preliminary aeration, so it has enough time to fully reveal its complex bouquet.