Source: 222, Wine Advocate; Issue Date: 31st Dec 2015 (RP-84-86)

The 2014 Pommard Clos des Ursulines Domaine du Pavillon has a rather broody bouquet with sultry blackberry and mulberry scents. I would like to see more terroir-expression here. The palate is medium-bodied with rustic, slightly hard tannin. It is a little “blocky” in style, broad shouldered with some obduracy on the finish that needs to be dealt with during levage. Hopefully it will soften and become suppler with time.

Source: www.albert-bichot.com

The hot, dry summer weather was most beneficial for the vines. The winter was mild and the spring was dry. Volumes were good, despite violent hailstorms in June; some of the Côte de Beaune’s appellations were particularly hard hit. Overall the health of the vines was very good.

The Red Wines – Nice concentration on the palate, a fruity, elegant nose; soft, pleasing tannins lend lovely length.

The “Clos des Ursulines”, a peaceful haven dotted with centuries-old pine trees, is located at the heart of Pommard. It is undoubtedly this tranquillity that once enchanted the nuns from the Ursuline convent who were the first owners of the estate. This almost 4-hectare (9.8 acre) “monopole” is located at the southern end of the Pommard appellation toward Volnay. Thanks to its unique terroir, this wine challenges the widely spread myth that Pommard wines are more “masculine”.

TASTING
This Pommard “Clos des Ursulines” reveals a fruity nose redolent of cherry, blackcurrant and fig. Over the years these aromas will evolve toward notes of coffee and leather. Full and round on the palate with ripe tannins and rich, but not heavy, substance. This wine is powerful and well-structured yet remains subtle, elegant and almost “feminine” due to the vineyard’s proximity to Volnay. The finish is silky and velvety.

FOOD/WINE PAIRING
Serve with exquisitely prepared red meats, feathered game and wine sauces.

SERVING AND KEEPING
Serve between 16 and 17°C (60°F – 63°F).
This wine may be laid down for 5 to 7 years or more.