The 2017 Domaine de l'Écu Nexus Pinot Noir is a rare collaborative cuvée between Domaine de l'Écu and Philippe Gilbert of Menetou-Salon, showcasing the elegance of Loire Valley Pinot Noir through biodynamic farming and amphora maturation. Crafted from hand-picked fruit with 25% whole bunches, the wine is fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged for 12 months in 400-litre amphorae without fining or filtration. The bouquet is beautifully perfumed, revealing aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, black cherry and blackberry, layered with delicate smoky notes, violet and subtle floral spice.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a supple, silky texture, vibrant Loire acidity and refined, fine-grained tannins. Juicy flavours of red cherry, raspberry and black fruits are complemented by hints of blue flowers, gentle earthiness and mineral freshness, leading to a long, elegant and persistent finish. Amphora ageing enhances purity and texture while preserving the wine's freshness, resulting in a Pinot Noir that is both graceful and expressive. A short decant is recommended in its youth, while further bottle ageing will reward patience.
Ben's Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an outstanding choice for customers seeking an elegant, terroir-driven Pinot Noir with vibrant fruit, silky texture and exceptional finesse. Pair it with roast duck, grilled salmon, herb-roasted chicken, mushroom risotto or Iberico pork. Enjoy it now after a gentle decant, or cellar for 10–15 years to allow its savoury complexity and refined character to continue evolving.
