"One of the finest domaines in all of Burgundy." -Burghound
2011 Michel Gaunoux 1er Cru Rugiens
Gaunoux's Burgundies are throw-backs to a different era that scarcely exists beyond the domaine.
The wines do not pull any punches - they are steadfastly old school and unapologetically built for the long-haul. And as Burghound points out, these are far more than simple anachronisms. They are profoundly impressive.
Beyond all of this, they are some of the greatest Burgundy values for the cellar. You'd be hard pressed to find a bottle of Burgundy that delivers what Gaunoux's Rugiens does.
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Pommard does not have any Grand Crus, but the best sites can rival many a Grand Cru. When it comes to Pommard, Rugiens is tops. Gaunoux's Pommard 1er Cru Rugiens typifies the beautiful finesse and power that the site is famous for.
Gaunoux's Rugiens really seems to shine in 2011. The terroir imprint is intense. The Côte de Beaune was the sweet spot in the 2011 vintage. The wines have a gorgeous combination of concentration and tension.
When it comes to aging, the track record at Gaunoux is pretty crazy. In May of 2011, Burghound was blown away by a bottle of 1937 Grands Épenots. We've had plenty of great bottles from the 60s.
Gaunoux makes no effort to turn out wines that flaunt any early approachability or youthful flashiness. Instead, Gaunoux's wines are about a tightly knit subtlety, a soulful earthy minerality that blossoms with time.
The list of reds under $100 that can benefit from a few decades in the cellar is pretty slim; I can only think of a handful. However I arrange that list, Gaunoux looms large. When it comes to his top wines like Rugiens, they are very hard to beat.
To order, reply to offers@crushwineco.com or call the store at (212) 980-9463.
Ian McFadden
Director, Fine & Rare Wine
Crush Wine & Spirits