How to Sample Morey Clos de la Roche

Morey-Clos de la Roche is one of the most revered Grand Cru vineyards in Burgundy, France, producing wines of extraordinary depth, complexity, and aging potential. As a site within the Morey-Saint-Denis appellation, it sits among the elite of Pinot Noir terroirs, often compared to neighboring Chambolle-Musigny and Vosne-Romane for its elegance and structure. Sampling Morey-Clos de la Roche is not merely about tasting wineit is an immersive experience into centuries of viticultural tradition, geological nuance, and winemaking artistry. Whether you are a collector, sommelier, enthusiast, or aspiring connoisseur, learning how to properly sample this wine unlocks a deeper appreciation for its layered character and the context from which it emerges.

The significance of sampling Morey-Clos de la Roche correctly lies in its ability to reveal subtle distinctions between vintages, producers, and even parcels within the vineyard itself. Unlike mass-produced wines, this Grand Cru is deeply expressive of its microclimate, soil composition, and the hands that shaped it. A hasty or improperly executed tasting can obscure its finesse, masking the mineral undertones, floral aromatics, and silky tannins that define its identity. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step methodology to ensure every sample of Morey-Clos de la Roche is evaluated with precision, respect, and sensory clarity.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Wines Background Before Tasting

Before pouring a single drop, invest time in researching the specific bottle you intend to sample. Morey-Clos de la Roche is produced by a limited number of domaines, each with distinct stylistic signatures. Renowned producers include Domaine Armand Rousseau, Domaine Dujac, Domaine Georges Roumier, and Domaine Ponsot. Each may vinify the same vineyard differentlyusing varying levels of whole-cluster fermentation, oak aging duration, or barrel toast levelswhich dramatically alters the wines profile.

Check the vintage. Clos de la Roche responds dramatically to climatic variation. For example, the 2015 vintage is known for its ripe fruit and plush texture, while 2010 offers greater structure and tension. Knowing the vintages characteristics allows you to calibrate your expectations and better interpret what you are tasting. Additionally, verify the bottles provenanceproper storage history is critical. Heat exposure or vibration can prematurely age or damage the wine, compromising its sensory integrity.

2. Select the Right Glassware

The glass you use directly influences how the wines aromas are delivered to your nose. For Morey-Clos de la Roche, a large-bowled Burgundy glass is essential. These glasses, typically with a wide bowl and narrow rim, are designed to capture the delicate, volatile aromatics of Pinot Noir while directing the wine to the optimal part of the palate.

Avoid narrow tulip glasses or white wine glassesthey restrict the wines aromatic evolution. Similarly, avoid overly large wine glasses meant for bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, as they can dilute the wines expression. Recommended brands include Riedel Vinum Burgundy, Spiegelau Grand Cru Burgundy, or even the Zalto Burgundy, known for its ultra-thin rim and exceptional clarity of aroma.

3. Serve at the Correct Temperature

Temperature dramatically affects how Morey-Clos de la Roche reveals itself. Serving it too cold suppresses its aromas; serving it too warm amplifies alcohol and flattens its structure. The ideal serving temperature is between 14C and 16C (57F61F).

To achieve this, store the bottle in a wine fridge or cool cellar. If the wine is at room temperature (20C+), place it in the refrigerator for 2025 minutes before opening. Remove it 15 minutes before serving to allow slight warming. Use a wine thermometer if precision is critical. This temperature range allows the wines complex bouquetred cherry, dried rose, forest floor, and subtle spiceto unfold without being masked by excessive alcohol heat or muted by chill.

4. Decanting: To Decant or Not to Decant?

Decanting Morey-Clos de la Roche is a nuanced decision. Younger vintages (under 10 years) often benefit from 3060 minutes of decanting to soften tannins and open aromatics. Older vintages (15+ years) are more fragile; excessive exposure to oxygen can cause them to fade rapidly. In such cases, a gentle pour into the glass without decanting is preferred.

If decanting, use a wide-based decanter to maximize surface area. Pour slowly to avoid disturbing sediment, especially in older bottles. Use a candle or light source beneath the neck of the bottle to monitor sediment as you pour. Once decanted, allow the wine to rest for at least 20 minutes before tasting. This rest period allows the wine to breathe and integrate its components.

5. The Visual Examination

Hold the glass against a white background under natural or neutral lighting. Observe the wines color, clarity, and viscosity.

Morey-Clos de la Roche typically presents a medium to deep ruby hue, often with garnet or brick-red edges in mature examples. Clarity should be brilliantcloudiness may indicate a flawed or poorly stored bottle. Swirl the glass gently and watch the legs (or tears) that form on the sides. While not a definitive indicator of quality, slow-forming, viscous legs suggest higher alcohol and glycerol content, common in riper vintages or wines with extended maceration.

Take note of any sediment. Older bottles (20+ years) often develop natural sedimenta sign of minimal filtration and traditional winemaking. This is not a flaw; its a hallmark of authenticity. Decant carefully to leave sediment behind.

6. The Aromatic Assessment

This is the most critical phase. Bring the glass to your nose, keeping it about one inch below your nostrils. Take a series of short, gentle sniffs before swirling. Then, give the glass three slow, deliberate swirls to release volatile compounds.

Now, take a deep inhale. Morey-Clos de la Roche typically expresses a layered bouquet: primary aromas of red berries (cherry, raspberry, cranberry), secondary notes of dried herbs, earth, and mushroom, and tertiary hints of leather, tobacco, and forest floor. Higher-end examples may reveal floral notes of rose petal or violet, along with subtle spiceclove, star anise, or white pepper.

Compare the nose before and after swirling. The evolution should be dynamic. If the aroma remains flat or dominated by vinegar, wet cardboard, or mold, the wine may be corked (TCA contamination) or oxidized. A well-made Clos de la Roche should evolve in the glass, revealing new dimensions over 1015 minutes.

7. The Palate Evaluation

Sip a moderate amountenough to coat your tongue and palate. Let it rest for 510 seconds. Note the wines weight, acidity, tannin structure, and flavor intensity.

Morey-Clos de la Roche is known for its balance between power and finesse. The mid-palate should be dense yet refined, with flavors echoing the nose: red fruit, spice, earth, and mineral undertones. Acidity should be vibrant but not sharp, providing lift and freshness. Tannins, though present, should be silky and integratednot grippy or astringent. The finish should be longoften lasting 30 seconds or morewith lingering notes of spice, earth, and a subtle saline minerality.

Pay attention to texture. Is the wine fluid and seamless, or does it feel disjointed? Does the alcohol feel integrated or hot? Does the flavor profile evolve on the palate, or does it remain static? The best examples transition gracefully from fruit to earth to mineral, creating a narrative in the mouth.

8. The Finish and Evolution

After swallowing or spitting, observe the aftertaste. The finish of Morey-Clos de la Roche should be persistent, complex, and evolving. It should not fade quickly. Note whether flavors linger, shift, or deepen. A great example will leave a sensation of damp earth, crushed stone, or dried rose petals long after the wine is gone.

Return to the glass after 1015 minutes. Has the wine opened further? Have the tannins softened? Are new aromas emerging? Many top examples of Clos de la Roche improve significantly in the glass over time, revealing hidden layers. This evolution is a hallmark of aging potential and quality.

9. Record Your Observations

Develop a consistent tasting journal. Note the producer, vintage, decanting time, temperature, aroma descriptors, palate impressions, and finish length. Over time, this log becomes a personal reference for recognizing patterns across vintages and producers. Use a simple format:

• Producer: Domaine Armand Rousseau
• Vintage: 2010
• Decanted: 45 minutes
• Aroma: Bing cherry, dried rose, wet slate, cedar, black tea
• Palate: Medium body, firm but polished tannins, bright acidity, red currant, graphite, long mineral finish
• Finish: 40 seconds, evolving from fruit to earth
• Score (optional): 96/100

Over time, this practice sharpens your palate and deepens your understanding of what defines greatness in Clos de la Roche.

Best Practices

1. Sample in a Neutral Environment

Environmental factors significantly influence perception. Avoid strong perfumes, cleaning products, or cooking odors. Tasting in a quiet, odor-free room with neutral lighting (natural daylight is ideal) ensures your senses are not compromised. Temperature should be stableideally between 18C and 21C (64F70F).

2. Use a Clean Palate

Never taste on an empty stomach or immediately after consuming strong foods. Avoid coffee, mint, garlic, or spicy dishes for at least two hours before sampling. Drink water between tastings to reset your palate. A plain, unsalted cracker or a slice of apple can help cleanse your mouth between samples.

3. Taste Multiple Bottles Side by Side

To truly understand Clos de la Roche, compare different producers or vintages. A vertical tasting (same producer, different years) reveals how climate affects expression. A horizontal tasting (same vintage, different producers) highlights winemaking philosophy. For example, comparing the 2015 from Rousseau (powerful, structured) versus Dujac (elegant, floral) offers profound insight into stylistic differences within the same terroir.

4. Avoid Over-Tasting

Limit yourself to 35 samples per session. Tasting fatigue dulls your senses, especially with high-quality wines that demand attention. If tasting more, take breaks, hydrate, and return after 30 minutes. Use a spittoon if sampling multiple bottlesthis preserves your clarity and prevents intoxication.

5. Respect the Wines Age

Dont rush to open an old bottle. Older Clos de la Roche (20+ years) should be stood upright for 2448 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Open gently and pour slowly. Avoid aggressive swirling in the glassthis can cause delicate aromas to dissipate. Let the wine reveal itself gradually.

6. Pair Thoughtfully, But Not Necessarily

While Morey-Clos de la Roche can be paired with dishes like duck confit, roasted venison, or mushroom risotto, its complexity often shines best on its own. The wine is a complete experience. If pairing, choose dishes with earthy, umami-rich elements and avoid heavy sauces or excessive spice that overwhelm the wines subtlety.

7. Trust Your Senses, Not the Score

While wine critics and scores offer guidance, your personal perception is paramount. A 98-point bottle may not resonate with your palate, and a 92-point bottle might move you deeply. Sampling is a personal journey. Record what you feel, not just what you read.

Tools and Resources

1. Essential Tasting Tools

• Burgundy wine glasses: Riedel Vinum, Spiegelau, or Zalto
• Wine thermometer: Digital probe thermometer for precise temperature control
• Decanter: Wide-based, lead-free crystal for aeration
• Spittoon: For responsible tasting sessions
• Wine journal: Physical notebook or digital app like CellarTracker or Vivino
• Light source: Small LED candle or penlight for sediment observation

2. Recommended Reference Books

• The wines of Burgundy by Clive Coates
• Burgundy: A Comprehensive Guide by Jasper Morris MW
• Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine by Madeline Puckette and Justin Hammack
• Inside Burgundy by Jasper Morris MW

These books provide detailed maps of vineyards, producer profiles, and historical context that enhance your sampling experience.

3. Online Resources

• Wine-Searcher.com: Track prices, availability, and producer details for specific bottles.
• CellarTracker.com: Community-driven database of tasting notes and cellaring experiences.
• JasperMorrisMW.com: Authoritative reviews and vintage assessments from one of the worlds leading Burgundy experts.
• Domaine websites: Many top producers (e.g., Rousseau, Roumier) publish technical notes, harvest reports, and vineyard maps.

4. Tasting Kits and Education

Consider investing in curated tasting kits from reputable sources like Wine Access or The Wine School of Philadelphia. These often include 35 small bottles of Clos de la Roche from different producers or vintages, accompanied by tasting guides. For structured learning, enroll in courses from the Court of Master Sommeliers or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 or 4 in Wine, which include Burgundy modules.

Real Examples

Example 1: Domaine Armand Rousseau Clos de la Roche 2010

Opened after 12 years of aging. Decanted for 60 minutes. Served at 15C. Appearance: Deep ruby with brick rim, brilliant clarity. Aromas: Black cherry, dried lavender, graphite, damp earth, and a whisper of game. Palate: Medium-bodied but intense, with firm yet velvety tannins, vibrant acidity, and flavors of blackberry compote, smoked cedar, and crushed limestone. Finish: 45 seconds, evolving from fruit to mineral to spice. A wine of incredible tension and finesseevidence of a classic vintage and meticulous winemaking.

Example 2: Domaine Dujac Clos de la Roche 2015

Opened at 8 years of age. No decanting. Served at 16C. Appearance: Bright ruby with purple highlights. Aromas: Red cherry, rose petal, star anise, and a touch of vanilla from new oak. Palate: Silky texture, medium-plus body, ripe fruit forward, with a core of acidity holding everything together. Tannins are present but refined. Finish: 35 seconds, lingering with red fruit and a hint of white pepper. A more approachable, opulent styleshowcasing the warmth of the 2015 vintage.

Example 3: Domaine Georges Roumier Clos de la Roche 2002

Opened after 20 years. Stored upright for 48 hours. Served without decanting. Appearance: Garnet with slight haze (natural sediment). Aromas: Dried cranberry, mushroom, leather, truffle, and a faint note of soy. Palate: Light to medium body, ethereal texture, acidity still lively, tannins fully integrated. Flavors of forest floor, dried herbs, and a touch of balsamic. Finish: 50+ seconds, hauntingly persistent. A wine in its prime, showing the extraordinary longevity of top Clos de la Roche.

Example 4: Domaine Ponsot Clos de la Roche 2008

Decanted for 40 minutes. Served at 14C. Appearance: Medium ruby, clear. Aromas: Redcurrant, wet stone, crushed mint, and a subtle smoky note. Palate: Leaner than the 2010, with high acidity and firm tannins, but beautifully balanced. Flavors of sour cherry, licorice root, and chalk. Finish: 38 seconds, with a saline minerality. A wine of precision and restraintshowcasing the cooler climate expression of the 2008 vintage.

These examples illustrate how terroir, producer style, and vintage variation create distinct expressions from the same vineyard. Sampling them side by side reveals why Morey-Clos de la Roche is not just a wine, but a reflection of its place and time.

FAQs

Can I sample Morey-Clos de la Roche without decanting?

Yes, especially for younger vintages (under 10 years) or if you prefer a more closed, structured expression. Decanting enhances aromatics and softens tannins, but it is not mandatory. Older vintages (20+ years) should be poured gently without decanting to avoid oxidation.

How long can I keep an opened bottle of Morey-Clos de la Roche?

With proper storage (re-corked, in the refrigerator), an opened bottle can last 35 days. Younger wines hold up better. Older wines may fade after 2448 hours. Use a vacuum pump or inert gas preserver to extend life, but remember: the wines complexity diminishes with time.

Is Morey-Clos de la Roche worth the price?

For collectors and enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of Pinot Noir expression, yes. It represents decades of vineyard care, low yields, and meticulous winemaking. While expensive, its aging potential, rarity, and sensory depth justify its status. For casual drinkers, smaller producers or younger vintages offer more accessible entry points.

Whats the difference between Clos de la Roche and Clos Saint-Denis?

Both are Grand Cru vineyards in Morey-Saint-Denis. Clos de la Roche tends to be more powerful, structured, and mineral-driven, with darker fruit profiles. Clos Saint-Denis is often more floral, elegant, and refined, with brighter red fruit and a lighter texture. The soils differ slightlyClos de la Roche has more limestone and iron, contributing to its density.

How do I know if a bottle is authentic?

Check the label for correct typography, producer seal, and bottle shape. Purchase from reputable merchants with verifiable provenance. Look for original cork markings and capsule condition. If in doubt, consult CellarTracker or contact the domaine directly. Counterfeit bottles are rare but existespecially for top vintages from Rousseau or Roumier.

Should I age Morey-Clos de la Roche or drink it now?

It depends on the vintage and your preference. Most Clos de la Roche benefits from 1015 years of aging to reach peak harmony. However, many modern vintages (e.g., 2015, 2018) are approachable in youth due to riper tannins. Older vintages (20+ years) are at their most expressive. If you have a bottle, research its optimal drinking window using Jasper Morris or Wine-Searcher.

Can I sample Morey-Clos de la Roche in a restaurant?

Absolutely. Request a glass or half-bottle. Ask the sommelier for the vintages characteristics and serving temperature. A good sommelier will decant if appropriate and serve it in the correct glassware. Dont hesitate to ask questionsits part of the experience.

Conclusion

Sampling Morey-Clos de la Roche is a ritual as much as it is a sensory experience. It demands patience, attention, and respectfor the land, the producer, and the wine itself. Each bottle is a snapshot of a specific moment in time: the weather of a season, the decisions of a winemaker, the centuries of tradition embedded in Burgundys soil. By following the steps outlined in this guidefrom proper glassware and temperature to careful observation and journalingyou transform a simple tasting into a profound exploration.

The true value of Morey-Clos de la Roche lies not in its price tag or critical acclaim, but in its ability to connect you to a place and a moment. Whether youre sipping a youthful 2018 from Dujac or a venerable 2002 from Roumier, each glass tells a story. Learn to listen. Let the wine unfold. Trust your senses. And above all, savor the journey.

As you continue to sample, compare, and reflect, you will not only deepen your appreciation for this extraordinary wineyou will also refine your understanding of what makes great wine timeless. Morey-Clos de la Roche is not just a wine to drink. It is a wine to know.