Product Description
The 2022 Sylvain Cathiard Hautes Côtes de Nuits Rouge is a remarkable addition to the Domaine's portfolio, showcasing the intricate potential of the Hautes Côtes vineyards. Sourced from a small but carefully selected 2.5-hectare parcel in Villars Fontaine, located at an elevation of 350 meters above Nuits-St-Georges, this wine expresses both the uniqueness of its terroir and the finesse of Cathiard's winemaking approach.
The wine presents an inviting dark fruit profile, with a slightly denser colour compared to other Bourgogne wines from the Côte. It's a youthful expression with a plumper raspberry fruit profile, complemented by a subtle dryness from the oak, which will integrate with time. The wine offers great structure, balanced by juicy freshness and fine tannins, making it a perfect early-drinking option while waiting for more complex village wines to mature. With a medium-bodied profile, this wine has a pleasant length, offering a youthful bitterness that will soften with age. This Hautes Côtes cuvée is the ideal introduction to the Domaine’s Pinot Noir style, and with only a limited production of around 7 barrels in a good vintage, it’s an exclusive and limited offering.
Maker
Domaine Sylvain Cathiard, founded in the 1930s by Sylvain’s grandfather, is a boutique estate that has gained a stellar reputation for its exceptional wines. Based in Vosne-Romanée, the estate spans 5 hectares, with vineyards in prestigious appellations including Vosne-Romanée, Nuits-St-Georges, Chambolle-Musigny, and a coveted plot in Romanée-St-Vivant. Under the meticulous stewardship of Sebastien Cathiard, who took over in 2011, the estate has flourished, with an emphasis on sustainable viticulture, organic principles, and minimal intervention winemaking. Sebastien’s approach to winemaking is hands-off, allowing the natural expression of the terroir to shine through while focusing on elegance, purity, and balance in each wine. The Domaine's reputation has skyrocketed, with wine writer Neal Martin calling it one of the top producers of Vosne-Romanée, earning acclaim from both critics and collectors worldwide.
The Domaine's expansion into the Hautes Côtes de Nuits, with new parcels in Villars Fontaine, further enhances the Cathiard legacy. Sebastien has created a purpose-built facility that allows for more room to vinify and age wines, ensuring that this new addition, along with the core vineyard plots, will be available to more consumers, all while maintaining the Cathiard style.
Philosophy
Sebastien Cathiard’s philosophy centres around producing wines that are harmonious, elegant, and true to their terroir. With a clear respect for the natural environment, the Domaine follows organic and biodynamic principles, fostering balance in the vineyard and letting nature dictate the pace of growth. Sebastien’s commitment to minimal intervention allows the vineyards to express their full potential, producing wines that are pure and reflective of their origins.
The winemaking process is marked by an almost non-interventionist approach, using natural yeasts and allowing the wines to mature on their lees for up to 18 months. Sebastien’s use of oak is thoughtfully measured, reducing the percentage of new oak over time to ensure the wine retains its fresh fruit character while gaining complexity. His wines are structured, with an emphasis on balance and ageability, crafted to highlight the beauty of Burgundy’s terroir. With a production of only about 50 barrels per year across all appellations, the wines are limited, highly sought-after, and offered first to loyal customers.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Dark Fruit, Pepper, Subtle Oak
The nose opens with a vibrant mix of dark fruits, including ripe raspberry and black cherry, interwoven with a peppery spice and a touch of subtle oak. The aromatic profile is complex, enticing, and layered.
Palate
Raspberry, Fresh, Structured
On the palate, the wine presents a smooth and balanced profile, with ripe raspberry fruit at the core. The fine tannins provide structure and depth, while a streak of freshness keeps the wine lively and vibrant.
Finish
Juicy, Balanced, Length
The finish is medium in length, with a youthful bitterness that gives way to a balanced, mineral-driven finale. The wine lingers with a clean, refreshing acidity that leaves a lasting impression.
The Finer Details
Style – Red Wine
Varietal – Pinot Noir
Country – France
Region – Burgundy
Vintage – 2022
Bottle Size – 750ml
ABV – 13%
