Hospices de Nuits Cuvée Bernarde Delesclache Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru 'Les Vignerondes'

Introduction to the Hospices de Nuits Cuvée Bernarde Delesclache

Hospices de Nuits Cuvée Bernarde Delesclache Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru ‘Les Vignerondes’ is a testament to the rich tradition and expertise of Burgundian winemaking. Founded in 1270, the Hospices de Nuits stands as one of the oldest winemaking institutions in Burgundy, with a dual mission of producing world-class wines and supporting local healthcare through charitable wine sales.

Historical Significance and Estate Heritage

The Hospices de Nuits estate operates uniquely as both a vineyard and a hospital, funded by the sales of their wines. Vineyards were donated centuries ago to financially support these medical facilities, resulting in an intricate mosaic of high-quality parcels across key Burgundy villages, including Nuits-St-Georges. Today, this blend of history and philanthropy manifests in the Cuvée Bernarde Delesclache, producing wines that are celebrated for their charitable legacy as much as their taste.

The Vineyard: Les Vignerondes

Located in the esteemed Nuits-Saint-Georges appellation, ‘Les Vignerondes’ is classified as a Premier Cru vineyard. With its prime mid-slope location, the vineyard boasts limestone-rich soils that are ideal for cultivating Pinot Noir. The climatic conditions enhance the aromatic complexity and structural elegance of the wine, featuring warm summers and cool nights that perfectly balance ripeness and acidity.

Winemaking Expertise

Specializing in Pinot Noir, the Cuvée Bernarde Delesclache evokes the epitome of Burgundy’s esteemed varietal, renowned for expressing subtle differences in terroir. Winemaking practices include manual harvesting, cold maceration for flavor extraction, fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and meticulous aging in French oak barrels to balance texture and fruit expression.

Tasting and Sensory Experience

This wine is an olfactory delight, dominated by vibrant aromas of cherry and raspberry, deepened by blackcurrant and floral notes of violets. Its medium-bodied palate offers structured tannins with lively acidity, allowing fruit flavors and spices to linger on the finish. The hallmark elegance of this wine is marked by its minerality, a testament to the prime terroir of the Côte d’Or.

Gourmet Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Pair this exquisite red Burgundy with roasted duck, grilled lamb, or mushroom risotto to complement its vibrant acidity and earthy undertones. For an optimal experience, decant the wine if consumed young—allowing the aromas and flavors to aerate—and serve at a cool 16°C to enhance its freshness.

Longevity and Collection Value

With a cellaring potential ranging from 5-20 years, depending on vintage and storage conditions, this wine offers longevity that wine enthusiasts treasure. Its rarity and historical value make it highly sought after for both the quality of its craftsmanship and its rich philanthropic roots.

The Charitable Auction Tradition

Every year in March, the wines of Hospices de Nuits are sold in a charity auction at Clos de Vougeot. This event not only attracts collectors from across the globe but ensures that the proceeds continue to fund the hospital operations, cementing the wine’s place in both history and hearts.

Conclusion

Hospices de Nuits Cuvée Bernarde Delesclache ‘Les Vignerondes’ is more than just a wine—it is a legacy. Embodying centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and community service, it stands as an elegant expression of Burgundy’s finest attributes.