Ghislain Kohut Fixin Pinot Noir 2021

Domaine Ghislain Kohut is an emerging name in the Côte de Nuits, crafting wines with precision and a deep respect for terroir. Based in Fixin, Kohut focuses on sustainable viticulture and careful vineyard management to highlight the character of this often-overlooked appellation. His wines are known for their structure and balance, capturing both the power and finesse that define great Pinot Noir. While Fixin has historically been associated with more robust, rustic styles, Kohut’s approach—gentle extraction, partial whole-cluster fermentation, and restrained oak ageing—results in wines with impressive depth, minerality, and elegance.

The 2021 vintage in Burgundy was marked by frost and low yields, but skilled producers like Kohut produced wines with purity, freshness, and energy. Fixin’s terroir, with its limestone and marl soils, gives the wine a firm mineral backbone, while the cooler climate contributes to its bright acidity and lifted aromatics.

Appearance: A deep ruby-red with a slight purple reflection, showing its youthful intensity. The wine is clear and brilliant, with medium viscosity, suggesting a balanced structure and moderate alcohol.

Aroma: Expressive and layered, with aromas of ripe black cherries, wild strawberries, and crushed redcurrants. Hints of violet and rose petals add elegance, while underlying notes of forest floor, black pepper, and a touch of smoky earth provide complexity. A whisper of toasted oak enhances the wine without overwhelming the fruit.

Taste: Structured yet refined, with a vibrant core of red and black berry fruit. The tannins are firm but polished, giving the wine a robust yet silky texture. Lively acidity enhances the freshness, while subtle spice, crushed stone, and a hint of cocoa add depth. The balance between fruit, earth, and minerality makes this an incredibly well-composed expression of Fixin.

Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering notes of blackberries, crushed herbs, and a savoury, almost umami-like earthiness. As the wine opens, delicate spice and floral elements become more pronounced, leaving a refined and complex aftertaste.

Food Pairing: Perfect with roasted guinea fowl and wild mushrooms, as the wine’s structure and earthy elements complement the dish’s savoury depth. Also pairs beautifully with braised beef short ribs, where the acidity cuts through the richness while the tannins enhance the meaty texture. Aged Morbier cheese would also be an excellent match, highlighting the wine’s mineral and smoky nuances.