Ponsot   Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru

2018 Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru

By Ponsot

2018 Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru from Ponsot, Burgundy, France

The 2018 vintage of Burgundy yields enchanting surprises, and amongst these, the 2018 Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru from Ponsot emerges with a compelling narrative. This storied climbsite, nestled in the heart of Morey-Saint-Denis, imparts a profound sense of place and nobility to the wines it produces.

 

Defining a Vintage: The Nuances of Nature

The climatic ballet of 2018 saw Burgundy flirting with extremes – an ample winter transitioning to a radiant summer. Generous sunshine ensured optimal ripening, which is delightfully apparent in Ponsot's meticulous rendition. The vintage bestowed upon us a dynamic energy within the wines without compromising the quintessential Burgundian elegance.

In this iteration, the 2018 Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes reveals itself with poise – boasting a tapestry of dark cherry and ripe raspberry entwined with whispers of earth and venerable oak. Proper cellaring would unfurl its intricate layers and ethereal grace, presenting an alluring proposition for discerning investors and collectors alike.

 

Investing in Terroir-Driven Excellence

The long-standing vines, their roots entrenched deep into the limestone soils, have yielded a concoction that mirrors its environment – robust yet intricate. Anticipate the unfolding of tertiary intricacies as this vintage matures. For investors looking to diversify their portfolio with fine red Burgundy, this Grand Cru vintage from Ponsot offers notable promise.

In summation, the 2018 Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes represents not only a slice of Burgundy's heart but stands as a testament to the harmony between terroir and vintner's artistry. Unquestionably, it holds an esteemed position in the pantheon of 2018 Burgundian releases and offers a compelling chapter to any sophisticated anthology of fine wines.

Market price (GBP)

£3,360.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

224

Scores and tasting notes

95

Ponsot's 2018 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Cuvée Vieilles Vignes was only bottled in July 2020, and its extended élevage has really refined the wine. Opening in the glass with aromas of dark berries, cherries and plums mingled with dark chocolate, preserved citrus peel, woodsmoke and spices, it's full-bodied, concentrated and powerful, with real depth and mid-palate amplitude, its rich, powdery tannins largely concealed in a generous core of fruit. This is a muscular wine somewhat reminiscent of a more gourmand version of the domaine's 2005, and it will demand patience.

William Kelley - The Wine Advocate, 14 January 2021

Vintage performance