The Amphora: Episode II

Château de Chamirey 2019 Clos de Ruelles Monopole

In our second instalment of The Amphora series, we delve into the sublime complexities of the Château de Chamirey 2019, Clos de Ruelles.

Produced in the famed Côte Chalonnaise of Burgundy, this Premier Cru Pinot Noir is the product of decades-old vines, precise winemaking techniques, and the kind of terroir that yields exquisite depth of flavour and aroma.

Let’s journey through to the vineyard, the cellar, and ultimately the glass to experience the layers that make Clos de Ruelles a memorable pour and sip.

The Terroir of Clos de Ruelles:

A Vineyard with Character

The journey of Château of Chamirey’s Clos de Ruelles begins in its terroir. This monopole vineyard, covering 2.5 hectares, is planted on a south-east facing slope, allowing it to bask in ample sunlight. Clay and limestone-rich soils and oxidised iron content shape the vineyard’s unique composition. With vines dating back as far as 1954, the maturity of the vines in Clos de Ruelles adds to the structure and intensity of the wine. This vineyard offers a true expression of Burgundy’s mineral-rich terroir.

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From Vineyard to barrel

The magic of Clos de Ruelles isn’t only rooted in its soil; it continues in the careful winemaking techniques employed. Each grape is hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the finest reach the fermentation stage. A cold pre-fermentation maceration lasts four to six days and helps extract colour and phenolic complexity. A meticulous 15-day full maceration with gentle pigéage follows. The wine then undergoes fermentation using natural yeasts, staying true to Burgundian roots. These barrels impart gentle oak notes that harmonise with Pinot Noir’s delicate profile, creating a wine of layered elegance.

The Sip:

A Dance of Elegance and Depth

Pour a glass of Clos de Ruelles, and you’re greeted by a deep, shiny ruby hue—a sign of the wine’s robust character. As it opens, aromas of small red fruits mingle with floral notes, hinting at the wine’s youthful vibrancy. On the palate, expect an intricate balance between delicate tannins and refreshing acidity. Lingering hints of liquorice carry you to a long, satisfying finish, capturing the essence of Burgundy in each sip.

Pairing Clos de Ruelles

Novél Recommendations:

Each pairing is crafted to bring out the nuanced flavours and elegance of the Clos des Ruelles, creating an experience that celebrates both wine and food.

Grilled Octopus: The wine’s vibrant red fruit notes and balanced acidity complement the tender, smoky octopus, while its earthy minerality enhances the dish's rich Mediterranean herbs.

Mushroom Risotto: The earthy, savoury flavours of the risotto harmonise with the wine’s subtle mineral notes and delicate tannins.

Lamb Rack: The wine’s lush black cherry and liquorice flavours mirror the lamb’s juicy, robust taste, while its structured tannins bring out the savoury, herbaceous qualities of this classic dish.

Veg Sandwich: The wine’s refined acidity and red fruit tones balance the creamy, rich layers of mozzarella and tangy tomato, enhancing both the wine and the dish’s warmth and texture.

Charcuterie Board: The mix of cured meats and cheeses finds an ideal partner in the wine’s aromatic complexity and spice, each bite amplifying its layers of black fruit, earthy undertones, and delicate floral notes.

Chocolate Mousse: The wine’s lingering blackberry and plum notes are beautifully complemented by the bittersweet richness of the mousse.

The Art of Tasting

Tasting Clos de Ruelles is an experience unto itself. Using a proper tasting glass is essential to fully enjoy the flavour profile and aromas. The ideal glass provides ample room for aeration and concentrates the bouquet, allowing the wine’s nuances to shine. Serving temperature is also crucial, as it can amplify or mute the aromas that make Clos de Ruelles a Burgundy to remember.

Pinot Noir’s Finesse

With its thin skins and intense yet delicate fruit profile, is one of the most challenging yet rewarding grapes to grow. The grape’s susceptibility to climate and soil variation gives Clos de Ruelles its unique character, marrying Burgundy’s signature red fruits with mineral complexity. In this wine, the essence of Pinot Noir shines through—an intricate, balanced profile type of Burgundy’s best vineyards.

An Award-Winning Legacy

With an RP of 92, and a rating of 93 from Wine Enthusiast, Clos de Ruelles continues to impress critics and collectors alike. Described as “sleek” and “vividly acidic” with notes of blackberry, clove, and chocolate, the wine is as versatile as it is impressive, adding a touch of luxury to each meal or gathering.

As you enjoy each glass of Château of Chamirey 2019, Clos de Ruelles, you are reminded of the craftsmanship and heritage that define Burgundy.

This episode in The Amphora series is a tribute to a wine that is not just for drinking but offers a timeless experience with each sip.

Have a sip