The Clos du Roy is a historic vineyard with a winemaking history dating back to the 13th century. By the 18th century, its wines were already being compared to the premier wines of Gevrey-Chambertin, and it held a prestigious place in the Lavalle classification of 1855.
This estate includes 3 hectares (approximately 7.5 acres), though only half of the 80-year-old vines—planted in the finest sections of the plot—are utilized for this wine. The terroir is defined by a surface layer of thick limestone scree (grèzes litées) over a deep marly substrate, contributing to the wine's distinct character.
The resulting wine showcases a sophisticated balance, with a precise, chiselled attack complemented by fresh fruit flavors, leading to a structured finish that softens over time. The nose is intense and complex, offering aromas of iris, violet, black fruit, and spices such as Sichuan pepper and Espelette chili pepper. On the palate, fine, soft tannins are paired with vibrant mineral intensity, culminating in a long, saline finish.
Often regarded as the finest wine in the Marsannay appellation, it requires 2 to 5 years for its power and finesse to harmonize fully. The wine has excellent aging potential, with the ability to mature gracefully for 15 to 20 years or more. When consumed young, decanting is recommended for optimal enjoyment.
Winemaking practices vary slightly depending on the vintage, with 50% whole-bunch fermentation employed. The wine is aged for approximately 12 months in barrels (20% new oak) followed by 6 months in stainless steel tanks.
René Bouvier 'Clos du Roy, Vieilles Vignes' Marsannay 2022
Domaine René Bouvier, a family-owned estate, spans 30 hectares (approximately 74 acres) of vineyards, all located in the Côte de Nuits. Situated in Gevrey-Chambertin, the estate has been under the management of Bernard Bouvier since 1992.
The domaine produces an extensive portfolio of 26 wines, ranging from Bourgogne appellations to prestigious Grand Crus such as Charmes-Chambertin and Echezeaux. All grapes are harvested by hand, with 23 hectares (approximately 57 acres) dedicated to red wines and 7 hectares (approximately 17 acres) to white wines. Among these is Marsannay Le Clos, a monopole vineyard exclusively owned by the estate.
The vineyards stretch from the historic terroirs of the Dukes of Burgundy near Dijon to the renowned village of Vosne-Romanée. Most of the estate’s climats, or vineyard plots, are situated in the appellations of Marsannay, Fixin, and Gevrey-Chambertin, reflecting the rich diversity and heritage of the region.
The Marsannay wine region, located in the northernmost part of the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, is renowned for its diversity and quality. It is the only Burgundy appellation producing wines in all three styles: red, white, and rosé. The region’s vineyards span the villages of Marsannay-la-Côte, Chenôve, and Couchey, with a unique terroir characterized by limestone and marl soils. Known for its elegant and approachable Pinot Noir, lively Chardonnay, and vibrant rosés, Marsannay offers excellent value and showcases the finesse of Burgundy’s cool climate. With a growing reputation, it is often referred to as the gateway to the prestigious Côte de Nuits.
