2016 Domaine Sylvain Cathiard Aux Malconsorts Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru 750ml

The 2016 Domaine Sylvain Cathiard Aux Malconsorts Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru 750ml stands as an immortal benchmark of Côte de Nuits supremacy, aristocratic power, and legendary artisan craftsmanship. Furthermore, Aux Malconsorts is universally recognized as one of the greatest Premier Crus in Burgundy, directly bordering the mythical Grand Cru La Tâche. Under the direction of Sébastien Cathiard, the domaine crafts wines celebrated for their sheer purity, seamless texture, and soaring perfume. Today, this iconic cuvée honors that heritage with monumental depth, velvety tannins, and profound ageworthiness.

Additionally, the 2016 vintage produced red Burgundies of classical proportions, chiseled acidity, and remarkable aromatic precision. Cathiard’s ancient vines in Aux Malconsorts yield fruit with unmatched phenolic density and structural tension. Consequently, this benchmark 2016 release represents a crown jewel for collectors seeking ageworthy red Burgundy.

Terroir & Viticulture

Aux Malconsorts occupies an exceptional hillside amphitheater situated directly adjacent to La Tâche on the southern border of Vosne-Romanée. However, what elevates this climat into greatness is its unique geological foundation of hard Premeaux limestone and iron-rich clay. The vineyard sits on a gentle, well-draining slope that captures early morning sunshine while benefiting from cool breezes descending from the Combe.

Specifically, the shallow stony topsoil forces old vine roots deep into limestone fractures to seek vital minerals and moisture. Sébastien Cathiard manages his holdings with sustainable, organic-inspired disciplines and rigorous canopy management. The 2016 season began with devastating spring frosts that severely restricted yields, concentrating the surviving fruit. Therefore, the hand-harvested clusters possessed phenomenal dry extract, electric natural acidity, and pure aromatic precursors.

Vinification & Craftsmanship

The winemaking at Domaine Sylvain Cathiard follows a timeless, purist methodology designed to extract intense dry extract and architectural authority. Grapes were harvested entirely by hand in small baskets, followed by rigorous sorting table selection to remove imperfect fruit. The fruit was completely de-stemmed before fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats with native yeasts.

The wine matured for approximately eighteen months in French oak barrels, utilizing roughly 50% to 60% new oak barrels. In addition, the estate avoids excessive extraction, preferring gentle pumping-over rather than aggressive punch-downs to protect fine tannin grains. This measured wood treatment imparts delicate hints of sweet toast, vanilla, and cedar without masking floral purity. Furthermore, the wine was bottled without harsh fining to retain its energetic soul.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, the 2016 Domaine Sylvain Cathiard Aux Malconsorts Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru 750ml displays a deep, saturated ruby core with radiant magenta reflections. The nose immediately erupts with black cherries, wild blueberries, crushed violets, and ripe pomegranate. In addition, complex layers of dark chocolate, rose potpourri, damp limestone, and sweet baking spices unfold with swirling.

On the palate, the wine delivers full-bodied concentration, architectural density, and seamless silkiness. A core of blackberry and plum fruit is framed by noble, fine-grained tannins that coat the palate effortlessly. Meanwhile, a vibrant spine of crystalline limestone acidity provides weightless lift and driving tension throughout. Consequently, the finish extends with immense persistence, echoing wild berries, mineral earth, and lingering floral spices.

Technical Specifications

• Producer: Domaine Sylvain Cathiard
• Winemaker: Sébastien Cathiard
• Appellation: Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru AOC
• Climat: Aux Malconsorts
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Vintage: 2016
• Terroir: Premeaux limestone and iron-rich clay adjacent to La Tâche
• Vinification: 100% de-stemmed, native yeast fermentation, gentle extraction
• Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels (~50%–60% new)
• Alcohol: ~13.5% ABV
• Volume: 750ml
• Closure: Natural Cork

Service & Cellar Potential

Serve this Premier Cru between 15°C–17°C (59°F–63°F) in large Burgundy stemware. Specifically, if opening prior to 2028, decant the wine for at least one to two hours to allow the dense structural framework to uncoil. However, this legendary premier cru will reward patient collectors who allow it to mature undisturbed in the cellar.

Pair this wine with roasted duck breast with cherry reduction, pan-seared squab, rack of veal, or roasted wild mushrooms. Furthermore, aged artisanal cheeses like Comté or soft Chaource make an exceptional culinary match. As a result, collectors can cellar this magnificent 2016 Aux Malconsorts with supreme confidence through 2046+.