Description
Domaine Ninot is a historic family estate based in Rully, in Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise, with winemaking roots stretching back several centuries. Now run by siblings Erell and Flavien Ninot, the domaine farms around 13 hectares across Rully and Mercurey, with an increasing focus on organic viticulture (certified since 2020). Their philosophy is centred on precision in the vineyard and restraint in the cellar, aiming to produce wines that clearly reflect their terroirs while maintaining elegance and drinkability.
The Mercurey Vieilles Vignes 2022 comes from the estate’s old Pinot Noir parcels in this important appellation just south of Rully. Mercurey is known for producing some of the most structured reds in the Côte Chalonnaise, thanks to its clay-limestone soils and favourable exposures that allow full ripening while retaining freshness. The “Vieilles Vignes” designation highlights older vines, which naturally yield lower quantities but deliver greater concentration, depth and aromatic complexity.
In the cellar, the approach remains traditional and careful: hand-harvested grapes are fully or partially destemmed, followed by fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Extraction is kept gentle to preserve finesse rather than power. The wine is then aged for around 12 months in French oak barrels, with a modest proportion of new wood (typically around 10%), which adds subtle spice and structure without dominating the fruit.
In the glass, the 2022 vintage reveals a deep ruby colour and an expressive aromatic profile of ripe cherry, raspberry and redcurrant, lifted by notes of spice, forest floor and a light smoky touch. The palate is both generous and well-structured, combining juicy red fruit with fine, silky tannins and a fresh acidity that gives energy and lift. There is a clear sense of balance between fruit richness and mineral tension, typical of well-made Mercurey from old vines.
A versatile and gastronomic Burgundy, this wine pairs beautifully with roast poultry, duck, grilled meats or mushroom-based dishes. Already approachable in its youth but capable of short-term ageing, the Mercurey Vieilles Vignes 2022 reflects both the personality of the Ninot family and the serious potential of Mercurey as a source of elegant yet structured Pinot Noir.
