2009 Chateau de Citeaux Auxey-Duresses Les Duresses Premier Cru

The winning combination of an impeccable pedigree and the sun drenched 2009 vintage!
If you happen to visit Burgundy, make sure you take the time to meet Philippe Bouzereau at the Chateau de Citeaux. Amongst the wealth of terroirs in his custody, the Premier Cru "Les Duresses" stands out as a powerhouse of the Cote de Beaune, even for seasoned Burgundy aficionados. Lying on the side of the Montagne de Bourdon to the north of the appellation, the Climat "les Duresses" is one more proof that in Burgundy, location is of the essence. The Climat is at the crossing of two Combes (small valleys formed through erosion), the Combe Danay and the wider Combe d'Auxey. The valley is known to channel cold air over the vineyards at flowering time, so limiting yields in the most natural way possible. The Climat is a late ripening one for the Cote de Beaune, usually harvested at the same time as the Cote de Nuits. An ideal south- east facing aspect combined with different types of soil along the slopes (stoney marls from Callovien slats in the upper parts, with deeper clayish and eroded deposits at the bottom), create a very specific environment for grape growing. The resulting wines are typically of the highest calibre. Philippe Bouzereau’s vines have certainly produced such wines over the years, with a 1999 taking home the top prize at the 'Mondial du Pinot Noir" in 2007, in front of a notorious grand cru from Vougeot and premier Cru Pommard (no names will be cited, as the pill is still hard to swallow for the second and third, who never thought this underdog appellation could rival them). The award was not only recognition for the undervalued wines of the area, it also highlighted the intimate relationship the Bouzereau family enjoys with this Climat, so much so that the negociants of Beaune are regularly turning to them for fruit. For those that still need convincing of the buzz around the Cote de Beaune, this is where you should start. Ultimately, the proof is in the pudding, and this one is delicious! Very Limited stocks.
Tasting note:
Semi translucent dark crimson red colour with crimson red hue. Very perfumed nose with scents of ripe dark cherries intermixed with violets arising from the glass followed by some gamey characters, cedar and spice. Elegant, yet possessing an excellent power wave the palate delivers flavours of ripe dark cherries, dark plums, earth, cedar and a spicy back palate. Dryish finish with very fine grained tannins. Long dark cherry, dried meats, earthy cedar and spice aftertaste.
Cellar 3-4 years (2012-2015)
Alc 13.5%