Located above Gevrey Chambertin, the village of Marsannay has a complicated history. Mainly planted with Gamay when vineyards were first classified, no wines here could receive a status higher than villages.

Today, Clos du Roy would undoubtedly be a Premier Cru, always exemplifying that elusive mix between power, elegance, and silken tannins without overt new oak influence. Pataille's wines are fabulous from top to bottom, but Clos du Roy demands the greatest admiration.