2023 Benjamin Leroux Pommard 1er Cru Reugiens-Hauts

About The Wine

Leroux has always said that if there were one 1er Cru that would tempt him back to Pommard, it would be Les Rugiens. A new long-term contract with the same owner as the Volnay Caillerets brought Leroux back to his old stomping ground in 2017. So, once again, he is working with the same iron-rich red clay soils that he did so famously at Comte Armand.

These vines (0.6 hectares covering three small parcels of 25- to 90-year-old plants) lie at the foot of Les Rugiens-Hauts, the part of the vineyard considered by many (Leroux included) to produce Pommard’s greatest wines. Again, only the youngest fruit was destemmed, leaving half as whole bunches. “It’s the kind of Pommard I love,” says Leroux. Dark and layered, this is simply great Burgundy with the Leroux finesse and fine tannins. Five barrels were made this year.

Reviews

“Five Star Wine. The Rugiens was made with at least 50% whole bunches. A gorgeous opulent purple with a fragrance owing much to the whole bunches. This is noble fruit. Absolutely mouth-filling with a freshness to the fruit that makes one salivate. Multiple layers, a very fine example.” 93-96 points, Jasper Morris MW, Inside Burgundy

“Everything all at once, this is a tour de force—explosions of flavor and posh structure give this a very grown-up feel. Blackberries, woodsy spice, flattering acidity and suave tannins give this a confounding drink now-save for later sensibility.” 94 points, Christy Canterbury MW, Tim Atkin Burgundy Report

About Benjamin Leroux

Benjamin Leroux established his own label in 2007, dedicating himself entirely to the project since 2014. Working throughout the Côte d'Or with owned organic-certified vines, leased parcels, and carefully sourced fruit, he produces an extraordinary range from AC Bourgogne to Grand Cru. His deep relationships with predominantly organic growers allow him to influence farming decisions and dictate harvest timing for optimal ripeness.

Leroux's winemaking philosophy centers on preserving terroir through minimal intervention. He favours large wooden casks for vinification and maturation, uses very little new oak, and adjusts whole-bunch inclusion based on site and vintage. The scale remains artisanal—several wines are produced in quantities not exceeding a single barrel, reflecting his commitment to small-batch excellence.

The 2023 vintage exemplifies Leroux's exceptional timing and skill. The resulting wines showcase remarkable purity: charming fruit and silky structures. After consistently producing outstanding wines across every appellation, Leroux has established himself as a producer who simply doesn't know how to put a foot wrong.

Snapshot

Region: Burgundy

Country: France

Alcohol: 13.5%

Vintage: 2023

Size: 750ml

Closure: Wax sealed cork

Grapes: Pinot Noir

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