Log in / Sign up Benjamin Leroux Blagny 1er Cru La Pièce Sous Le Bois 2021
Leroux owns two parcels of vines in Meursault-Blagny’s highest 1er Cru, La Pièce Sous Le Bois. The first is 0.44 hectares of Chardonnay planted in 1953. The second is planted to Pinot and therefore must be labelled as Blagny La Pièce Sous Le Bois (only whites from Blagny can be labelled as Meursault or Puligny, subject to their precise location). Leroux has long beaten the drum for this limestone-rich, high-altitude terroir, firstly for its whites, and even more so for its underappreciated reds. He is only getting more vocal as the climate warms!
Leroux first vinified a Pinot from here in 2014 and was so enamoured with the quality he acquired an estate parcel at the earliest opportunity, in 2017. This should be a case of enough said. Back then, when discussing the terroir, Leroux would have a sparkle in his eyes. That both Leroux’s wines from this site have a Five Star review from Jasper Morris this year tells you plenty. The combination of warmer and/or drier seasons and the high rocky terroir has seen this area excel in recent years. The winegrowing is certified biodynamic and no new oak or whole bunches are used.
Pinot Noir pairs best with dishes featuring lighter meats such as roasted chicken, duck, salmon, or with earthy flavors like mushrooms, and it also complements a variety of cheeses like Brie and Gruyère.
The medium red crimson hue of this wine reveals a touch more color than the Savignys. On the nose, you'll find pure red fruit notes, accented by a subtle hint of reduction in the background. It's worth noting that the vineyards in Blagny experienced a 25% loss in the pinot crop due to their slightly less advanced state compared to the chardonnay vines. This difference is reflected in the aroma, which carries slightly darker fruit characteristics.
The wine's palate is somewhat restrained, largely due to the late malolactic fermentation. However, this restraint contributes to a well-defined and sturdy structure, suggesting that this wine has the potential to develop into a substantial offering. The finish is notably longer than many other wines, promising a rewarding and lingering tasting experience.
