Discovering Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru at the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter
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Attending the Clos de Vougeot masterclass at the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter was a rare treat, an incredible chance to explore various expressions of one of Burgundy’s most famous Grand Cru vineyards. The session was led by the witty and engaging Charles Curtis MW, whose storytelling brought the vineyard’s history and character to life. Joining him was François Labet, the owner of Château de la Tour, who shared personal insights about the vineyard his family has cared for over generations.
Clos de Vougeot’s history dates back to the 12th century when Cistercian monks from the Abbey of Cîteaux began planting vines on this hallowed land. They built a wine press and cellar that still stand today, bearing witness to centuries of winemaking. Enclosed by a stone wall, Clos de Vougeot is the largest Grand Cru vineyard in Burgundy, spanning around 50 hectares. Despite being a single Grand Cru, it’s a patchwork of holdings owned by over 80 different proprietors, creating a stunning diversity in wine styles.
Clos de Vougeot is also home to the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, Burgundy’s renowned wine brotherhood, which holds grand ceremonies in the vineyard’s historic cellars.
But here’s a twist that even the monks wouldn’t have seen coming: US hip hop artists now rap in the historic cellars of Clos de Vougeot! This isn’t just a one-off event – it’s part of the “Wine and Hip Hop” show, which recently held a unique session blending beats with Burgundy. You can check out more on their Instagram at @wineandhiphopshow.
Château de la Tour, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2019
Edouard Delaunay, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2019
Domaine de la Vougeraie, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2019
Domaine d’Eugénie, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2016
Domaine Anne Gros, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2022
Joseph Drouhin, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2016
Château de la Tour, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes, 2019
Domaine Henri Rebourseau, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes, 2019
Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2019
Domaine Jean Grivot, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2017
Domaine Faiveley, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, 2009
Château de la Tour, Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru Hommage à Jean Morin, 2019
Chateau de la Tour stands out for its total dedication to Clos de Vougeot, with the Labet family pouring their hearts into expressing the terroir’s unique character. François Labet’s passion was evident, he couldn’t resist proudly showing us a photo of his beloved horse, who plays its own role in caring for the vineyard! But let’s talk about the stars: the Vieilles Vignes 2019 and Hommage à Jean Morin 2019. The Vieilles Vignes? Layered, gourmand, and downright irresistible. And the Hommage? Elegance with a wink, I could have kept drinking these beauties all day.
Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair’s 2019 was a radiant interpretation with purity and brightness. Domaine Anne Gros’ 2022 brought a vibrant, fruit-forward style that highlighted a fresher side of Clos de Vougeot, still young but with huge potential.
Tasting this lineup of Clos de Vougeot wines side-by-side was an extraordinary experience and it feels like I’m just beginning to uncover the many profiles of this grand cru.
Would you like Vinum to organise a tasting like this? Or perhaps explore another iconic grand cru with different producers, like Corton?
Bises
Manon
P.S. Curious to bring Clos de Vougeot into your collection? Check out our pricelist and find your perfect bottle!
