Vinelights
A pre-war vineyard. A Pinot surprise. A new chapter from Chambolle.
Forget rustic, this Côteaux is silk. From a tiny plot planted just before World War II, ‘Aux Batailles’ is all cherry blossom and soft strawberry, with hints of violet, vanilla and spice. It’s 70% Pinot Noir, a rare ratio for this AOC, and it shows in the poise and perfume. Gentle oak ageing brings a whisper of texture, but the tannins stay gossamer-light. It’s floral, juicy, and glides across the palate like it’s been waiting 80 years for this moment. Part of Adrien Guyon’s 2023 return vintage, he’s a fourth-generation winemaker and former trainee at Domaine de la Vougeraie.
📍 The Plot
Named Aux Batailles meaning ‘To the Battles’ and planted just before the outbreak of World War II, this remarkable plot sits in Gilly-lès-Cîteaux on clay soils, just opposite the village of Chambolle-Musigny. The 86-year-old vines produce a tiny quantity of fruit, and the blend leans heavily on Pinot Noir (70%), making it unusually refined for Côteaux Bourguignons. It’s ready to drink, whilst laced with history and grace.
To mark the return, and next generation of this historic Domaine – a single shot was fired. The entry to the range has the same energy!
🍇 Technical
70% Pinot Noir, 30% Gamay from 86-year-old vines planted pre-WWII in Gilly-lès-Cîteaux. Clay soils. Aged 14 months in oak barrels. 100% destemmed. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
