Auxey-Duresses Les Hautes, Domaine Jean & Gilles Lafouge 2022

Domaine Jean & Gilles Lafouge is a historic family estate based in Auxey Duresses in the Côte de Beaune, where the Lafouge family has been rooted for several generations. Today run by Jean and Gilles Lafouge, the domaine is known for its classical, terroir focused approach to Burgundy, working across a range of appellations including Auxey Duresses, Meursault and Volnay. The vineyards are farmed with careful attention to soil health and balance, with a pragmatic but precise approach that prioritises expression of site over stylistic intervention. The domaine’s holdings sit on the limestone and marl slopes that link Meursault and the upper reaches of the Auxey valley, a transitional zone that produces wines combining structure, freshness and a slightly more rustic, earthy profile than neighbouring appellations. In the cellar, vinification remains traditional, with controlled extraction, native fermentations where possible, and élevage in French oak barrels calibrated to preserve fruit definition and regional identity.

Auxey Duresses Les Hautes is a Pinot Noir sourced from higher elevation parcels on the upper slopes above the village, where thinner soils, increased exposure and cooler temperatures produce a more linear and tension driven expression of the appellation. The vineyards here sit on limestone rich marl with limited topsoil, encouraging deep rooting and naturally restricting vigour, resulting in smaller berries and greater aromatic concentration. Fermentation is carried out in a traditional Burgundian style with native or ambient yeasts, followed by careful extraction to preserve finesse and clarity rather than weight. Élevage takes place in French oak barrels, with a restrained proportion of new oak to support structure without obscuring site definition. The wine shows lifted aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry and cranberry, layered with violet, subtle spice and stony mineral undertones. The palate is more vertical and refined than village Auxey Duresses, with fine grained tannins, bright acidity and a long, saline, slightly chalky finish that reflects the altitude and limestone influence of the upper slopes.

Origin Les Hautes, Auxey Duresses, Côte de Beaune, France

Grapes Pinot Noir

Vintage 2022

Alcohol 13.0%

Style Tense, refined, mineral red

Bottle size 75cl

Winemaking Traditional Burgundian vinification, native fermentation where possible, controlled extraction, élevage in French oak barrels with restrained new oak

Notes Sustainable Viticulture