Domaine Michele & Patrice Rion, Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Clos Saint-Marc Monopole, 2023

This is the jewel of Patrice Rion's domaine: Clos Saint-Marc is a monopole, meaning Rion is the sole owner, and at just under one hectare it's the smallest monopole in Nuits-Saint-Georges. The vineyard sits on deep brown soil over a bedrock of white and yellow marl, which holds water and stamps a distinct character on the wine. As a Premier Cru in Nuits-Saint-Georges, expect Pinot Noir with that village's classic structure and dark-fruited grip—here with the polish Rion brings. The 2023 is young and demands patience; cellar it or decant generously. A rare bottling from a tiny, walled plot.