Les Heritiers Saint-Genys Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly Cuvée Clovis: A Testament to Burgundy’s Terroir
Introduction
Les Héritiers Saint-Genys Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly Cuvée Clovis is a distinguished expression of Burgundy’s rich winemaking heritage. Crafted from the esteemed Premier Cru vineyard of Clos Marcilly in the Mercurey appellation, this wine is a true testament to the unique terroir of the Côte Chalonnaise. With its deep complexity, elegant structure, and refined character, Cuvée Clovis is a wine that embodies the timeless artistry of Burgundy winemaking.
The Heritage of Les Héritiers Saint-Genys
Les Héritiers Saint-Genys is a boutique winery dedicated to producing exceptional wines from some of Burgundy’s most prestigious vineyards. The estate’s philosophy is rooted in respect for tradition, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep commitment to expressing the terroir’s authenticity. The Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly vineyard is one of the crown jewels of the estate, producing wines that capture the essence of the region’s rich viticultural history.
Terroir and Vineyard
The Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly vineyard is located in the Côte Chalonnaise, an area renowned for its diverse soils and ideal climate for cultivating Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The vineyard is blessed with a unique combination of limestone and clay soils, which impart a distinctive minerality and structure to the wines. The vineyard’s south-east exposure ensures optimal sunlight, allowing the grapes to achieve perfect ripeness while retaining their freshness and acidity.
The Cuvée Clovis is crafted from hand-harvested grapes, selected for their exceptional quality and concentration. The vines, some of which are over 50 years old, yield grapes that are rich in flavor and complexity, reflecting the deep connection between the land and the wine.
Winemaking Philosophy
The winemaking process for Les Héritiers Saint-Genys Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly Cuvée Clovis is guided by a philosophy of minimal intervention and respect for the natural characteristics of the grapes. The grapes are carefully sorted and destemmed before undergoing a cold maceration to extract color, flavor, and tannins. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, with gentle pump-overs to ensure a balanced extraction.
After fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, with a portion of new oak used to enhance the wine’s complexity and add subtle notes of spice and vanilla. The aging process lasts for 12 to 18 months, during which the wine develops its elegant structure and harmonious balance. The result is a wine that beautifully expresses the terroir of Clos Marcilly, with a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins.
•Appearance: The wine displays a deep ruby color with bright garnet reflections, indicating its depth and aging potential.
•Nose: The aromatic profile is complex and inviting, with aromas of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and plums, intertwined with hints of violets, earthy undertones, and subtle spice from the oak aging. As the wine opens up, notes of forest floor, leather, and a touch of minerality emerge, adding layers of complexity.
•Palate: On the palate, Les Héritiers Saint-Genys Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly Cuvée Clovis is medium to full-bodied, with a silky texture and well-integrated tannins. The flavors of red and dark fruits are complemented by notes of black tea, tobacco, and a hint of clove. The wine’s acidity provides freshness and balance, while the fine-grained tannins add structure and a lingering finish.
•Finish: The finish is long and elegant, with persistent notes of ripe fruit, spice, and a touch of minerality, leaving a lasting impression of finesse and complexity.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Les Héritiers Saint-Genys Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly Cuvée Clovis is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing the flavors and textures of the food:
•Red Meat: The wine’s rich fruit and earthy notes make it an excellent match for grilled or roasted red meats, such as beef tenderloin, lamb chops, or venison. It also pairs well with game dishes, bringing out the savory flavors of the meat.
•Poultry: For a lighter pairing, try the wine with roasted duck breast, chicken coq au vin, or a turkey with a cranberry glaze. The wine’s acidity and fruitiness complement the rich flavors of the poultry.
•Mushroom Dishes: The earthy undertones of the wine pair beautifully with mushroom-based dishes, such as a wild mushroom risotto, truffle pasta, or a creamy mushroom soup.
•Cheese: The wine’s complexity and structure make it a perfect companion to a selection of aged cheeses, such as Comté, Gruyère, or an earthy Brie.
Serving and Cellaring
To fully appreciate the nuances of Les Héritiers Saint-Genys Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly Cuvée Clovis, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature of around 16-18°C (60-64°F). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes to an hour before serving can help to release its aromatic complexity and soften the tannins.
While this wine is approachable in its youth, it has the potential to age gracefully for 10 to 15 years, developing even more complexity and depth over time. Proper cellaring in a cool, dark, and humid environment will allow the wine to reach its full potential, offering an even more rewarding experience with age.
Conclusion
Les Héritiers Saint-Genys Mercurey 1er Cru Clos Marcilly Cuvée Clovis is a wine that captures the essence of Burgundy’s terroir and winemaking tradition. With its elegant structure, complex aromas, and refined palate, it stands as a testament to the exceptional quality that can be achieved in the Mercurey appellation. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, Cuvée Clovis is a wine that will delight and impress lovers of fine Burgundy.
