Clos Saint-Denis

Clos Saint-Denis is an Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) and Grand Cru vineyard for red wine in the Côte de Nuits subregion of Burgundy, specifically located in the commune of Morey-Saint-Denis in the Côte-d'Or department of France. The appellation was established in 1936 and is named after the Saint-Denis church, which was historically associated with the vineyard.

History

The vineyard of Clos Saint-Denis has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was originally owned by the Church, specifically the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine from the Saint-Denis-de-Vaux priory. The vineyard was secularized during the French Revolution, and the land was subsequently divided among various private owners.

Geography and Climate

Clos Saint-Denis is situated on the mid-slope of the Côte d'Or escarpment, which provides an ideal terroir for growing Pinot Noir grapes. The vineyard benefits from a continental climate with warm summers and cool winters, which is typical of the Burgundy wine region. The soil composition is primarily limestone and clay, contributing to the unique characteristics of the wine produced here.

Wine Characteristics

The wines from Clos Saint-Denis are known for their elegance, complexity, and aging potential. They typically exhibit aromas of red and black fruits, such as cherries and blackberries, along with floral notes and earthy undertones. The palate is often marked by fine tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, persistent finish. These wines are made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes, in accordance with the regulations of the AOC.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The vineyard practices traditional viticulture methods, including hand-harvesting and careful selection of grapes. The winemaking process involves fermentation in open vats, followed by aging in oak barrels for a period that can range from 12 to 18 months. The use of new oak is typically moderate to preserve the delicate fruit flavors and the expression of the terroir.

Notable Producers

Several renowned producers own parcels within the Clos Saint-Denis vineyard. These include Domaine Dujac, Domaine Ponsot, and Domaine Bertagna, among others. Each producer brings their unique style and expertise to the winemaking process, contributing to the diversity and quality of the wines from this Grand Cru vineyard.

See Also

• Burgundy wine
• Côte de Nuits
• Pinot Noir
• Grand Cru (Burgundy)
• Appellation d'origine contrôlée