Burghound 92 points ♥Sweet Spot Outstanding "  Ripe yet very fresh aromas of black cherry, kirsch and earth have a liqueur-like quality to them. The delicious, round and agreeably punchy medium-bodied flavors conclude in a serious, firm and built-to-age finish. This well-balanced effort should be more than capable of delivering a decade plus of development potential though be approachable after only 3 to 4 years. Worth checking out."

The 2022 Lafouge Auxey-Duresses Premier Cru “Climat du Val” Rouge showcases the exceptional precision and elegance that Domaine Lafouge brings to their wines. Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, the Lafouge family has long been a trusted steward of Auxey-Duresses’ terroir, delivering wines that reflect both tradition and the unique characteristics of each vineyard.

The “Climat du Val” vineyard is a Premier Cru site known for its cooler microclimate and soils rich in limestone and clay, which impart a refined structure to its wines. The 2022 vintage, shaped by warm weather and ideal ripening conditions, brings forth a wine with richness and balance. Aromas of black cherry, red plum, and wild raspberry dominate the nose, accompanied by subtle notes of underbrush, cedar, and a hint of sweet spice.

On the palate, this Pinot Noir is expressive yet graceful, with silky tannins providing a polished framework for flavors of ripe red berries, earthy mushrooms, and a touch of dried herbs. The wine’s vibrant acidity keeps it fresh and lively, leading to a long, mineral-inflected finish that speaks to its Premier Cru heritage.

This wine is a versatile pairing for dishes like roast lamb, duck confit, or herbed mushroom tart. While approachable now for its ripe fruit and supple texture, the 2022 “Climat du Val” has the structure and complexity to reward cellaring over the next 5–8 years, unveiling even greater depth and sophistication with time.