This Burgundian domaine has been a family estate for nearly 200 years. Erwan Faiveley, 7th generation, took the reins in 2006 from his father when he was only 25. They have earned their reputation as one of Burgundy’s finest and most trusted, with an unparalleled selection from the Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune and Côte Chalonnaise totalling over 120 hectares.
This Côte Chalonnaise village gets its name from the God Mercury (God of Merchants). As the name of the wine indicates, this clos formerly belonged to the Kings of France.
Domaine Faiveley surface area: 2ha 54a – (6.28 acres)
Years the vines were planted: 1970, 1971, 1975, 1982
Yield: 40 hl/ha
Annual production: 5,300 bottles
To maintain all the freshness and quality of the grapes, they are pressed and vinified on site in Mercurey. Then the wine is brought to Nuits-Saint-Georges to be matured in oak barrels for 14-16 months, in nineteenth century vaulted cellars which provide ideal conditions for raising wines. The proportion of new oak, which is susceptible to variations according to the vintage, represents on average one third of the cuvée. The barrels come from high-quality barrel makers and have been rigorously selected for their fine grain and light toast.
Spring was predictable with slight precipitation in March and the summer was relatively wet. Especially memorable was a hailstorm in mid-June that reduced yields by 15%. The harvest was early but without excessive maturity, which indicates a very good vintage. The wines reveal a great potential in their youth. The red wines have a dark ruby colour, a high concentration, well balanced and the tannins are soft and ripe. They have a beautiful structure, flavours are fresh and spicy. Elegant notes of fresh fig are typical of 2011.
On the nose, scents of red berries mix pleasantly with spicy and woody aromas, which come from the wine being raised traditionally in oak. This wine is very nicely balanced on the palate. Its rich aromas blend marvelously with its tannins, giving a wine which is generous and full of body.
Serve between 14º-16ºC
Côte Chalonnaise, Premier Cru
100% Pinot Noir
Cork