Description
Domaine Ninot is a historic family winery based in Rully, in Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise, now run by siblings Erell and Flavien Ninot. With roots dating back to the 14th century, the domaine has played a key role in shaping the reputation of Rully, and today farms around 13 hectares under organic certification. Their philosophy combines traditional Burgundian practices with a focus on precision and terroir expression, producing wines that emphasise balance, purity and drinkability.
“La Chaponnière” is one of the estate’s principal parcels, a large climat in Rully where both red and white wines are produced. Domaine Ninot farms nearly two hectares of Pinot Noir here, with vines planted in the mid-1970s and early 1980s on clay-limestone soils with an east to south-east exposure. This terroir promotes steady ripening and contributes to the wine’s hallmark balance between ripe fruit and fresh structure.
The 2023 Rouge is made from 100% Pinot Noir, hand-harvested and fully destemmed before fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Extraction is kept gentle to preserve fruit purity, and the wine is aged for around 12 months in traditional Burgundian oak barrels (with a modest proportion of new oak, typically around 10%). This élevage enhances texture and complexity without overshadowing the varietal character.
In the glass, “La Chaponnière” 2023 displays a bright ruby colour and an expressive aromatic profile of strawberry, raspberry and cherry, complemented by subtle smoky and spicy notes. The palate is generous yet fresh, combining ripe fruit with lively acidity and fine, polished tannins. There is a sense of immediacy and juiciness, balanced by enough structure to give the wine length and coherence.
Approachable in its youth but capable of short-term ageing (typically 3–5 years), it is a versatile food wine, pairing well with charcuterie, poultry or lighter meat dishes. A classic yet modern expression of Rully Pinot Noir, “La Chaponnière” 2023 reflects both the vitality of the vintage and the precision of the Ninot family’s winemaking.
