2024 Domaine A. et P. de Villaine Rully 1er Cru Rouge “La Digoine”, Burgundy, France

ABOUT THE WINE

“La Digoine” comes from an historic lieu-dit at the foot of the slope near Bouzeron, where deeper soils have long been associated with the production of fine red Burgundy. The domaine cultivates moderate-yielding selections of Pinot Noir here, producing a wine with greater depth and structure than its more immediately fruit-driven “La Fortune.”

The 2024 vintage shows remarkable balance between generosity and energy. Aromas and flavors of blackcurrant, crushed strawberry, and ripe cherry are supported by discreet earthy and savory nuances. The palate has flesh and concentration without heaviness, with silky tannins providing definition before an almost saline finish. The domaine attributes some of La Digoine’s distinctive vitality to the site's relationship with Bouzeron’s underground water sources, which help sustain the vines and contribute to the vineyard’s singular expression.

The vineyards are farmed organically, and work in the cellar follows the same philosophy of allowing the character of the site to remain at the forefront. Grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted, while vinification and élevage are deliberately restrained to preserve the purity of the Pinot Noir rather than cover it with extraction or overt oak.

Although appealing for its fruit when young, La Digoine has a proven capacity to develop considerably in bottle. The domaine recommends allowing the 2024 two to five years to reveal its full expression, with further aging bringing greater aromatic complexity. Pair it with roast duck, beef, lamb, game birds, mushroom dishes, or firm and moderately aged cheeses.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Domaine de Villaine is based in Bouzeron, at the northern end of Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise. Established by Aubert and Pamela de Villaine, the estate has played an important role in demonstrating the quality and individuality of this often-understated part of Burgundy. Today, the domaine is directed by Pierre de Benoist, who continues its focus on wines of purity, restraint, and precise terroir expression.

Organic viticulture has been central to the estate for decades, with farming focused on living soils, balanced vines, modest yields, and careful manual work. In the cellar, the philosophy remains similarly measured: thoughtful extraction, restrained use of oak, and minimal intervention are employed to preserve freshness and the individual character of each vineyard.

While Domaine de Villaine is particularly renowned for its work with Aligoté Doré in Bouzeron, its Pinot Noirs offer an equally compelling expression of the Côte Chalonnaise. La Digoine is among the domaine’s most distinctive reds, combining Burgundian finesse with unusual depth, silky structure, and an unmistakably mineral, saline signature.