Wines Pommard Domaine Montille - Les Rugiens-Bas - 1983

Viniou Reviews

Domaine de Montille's Pommard Premier Cru "Les Rugiens-Bas" 1983 is a true expression of Burgundy Pinot Noir, reflecting the elegance and structure synonymous with great Côte de Beaune wines. Harvested from the revered "Les Rugiens-Bas" parcel, this cuvée comes from old vines rooted in clay-limestone soils, which impart both minerality and depth. The 1983 vintage was marked by a warm, challenging season, leading to concentrated fruit and robust tannins that have mellowed beautifully with time in magnum format—a size renowned for promoting graceful, slow ageing. De Montille's traditional vinification, with minimal intervention and judicious use of oak, seeks to showcase the purity and nuanced terroir character of Pommard.

The Pommard appellation sits south of Beaune in the heart of Burgundy. It is renowned for producing some of the region’s most structured and age-worthy reds, often more robust than neighbouring Volnay. The vineyards of "Les Rugiens," especially the lower "Bas" section, are considered the pinnacle of Pommard, thanks to exceptional drainage and mineral-rich soils. The climate is continental, with marked seasonal contrasts that help the Pinot Noir reach phenolic maturity while retaining freshness. Burgundy’s winemaking heritage, dating back to medieval monastic orders, is palpable in every bottle, combining centuries of tradition with modern precision.

To truly appreciate this venerable magnum, serve it slightly cool, around 16-18°C, after careful decanting to separate it from potential sediment and allow the bouquet to fully open. Foods that pair particularly well include traditional Burgundian fare such as coq au vin or boeuf bourguignon, roast duck with cherries, or simply a classic roast lamb. Earthy accompaniments—wild mushrooms, truffle risotto, or aged Comté—will highlight its savoury tertiary characters. This wine, with its delicate tannins, wild berry fruit and sous-bois complexity, deserves to be enjoyed alongside refined, soulful cuisine.