Burgundy wines may have seen the smallest harvest in two decades due to an unexpectedly harsh spring in 2016 (read more here), but if the Bourgogne Week 2018 that recently took place in our fair city is anything to go by, the craze for burgundy wines has skyrocketed more than ever.
Showcasing 155 references (over 40% increase from last time) from 25 importers, the event covered everything from newly released 2016s to lesser-known appellations, underlining the breath and depth of wines from France’s most famous wine region, Bourgogne.
Here we shine the spotlight on five hidden gems from the event.
Louis Jadot Beaune Grèves Le Clos Blanc Domaine Gagey 2014: The Beaune vineyard – one of the most extensive vineyards of Côte de Beaune – was established in 1936. This particular wine comes from the predominantly red premier cru of Beaune Grèves. With a well-balanced palate and a mix of fruity and apricot flavours, it’s both ripe and acidic.
Domaine Gille Côte de Nuits-Villages Blanc 2015: The Côte de Nuits-Villages is produced by five of the smaller communes of the Côte de Nuits. Only a mere fraction of the production comprises white wines, which makes this particular appellation as rare as it is elegant. Boasting a full-bodied mouth with a mineral aftertaste mingled with Chardonnay fruit, it’s perfect for those looking for a less acidic drink.
Château de Chamirey Mercurey 2013: At 630 hectares, Mercurey is one of the largest communes within Bourgogne. The vineyard, whose location keeps it well protected from humid breeze, has been gaining more appreciation in the right circles for the growing quality of its wines. This particular burgundy wine is a classic Pinot Noir with a long finish guaranteed to get a nod of approval from the most discerning of sommeliers.
Gérard Quivy Gevrey-Chambertin Les Journeaux 2013: With old vines dating back to 1933, the vineyard uses only organic fertilizers for the harvest. Dark red – almost purple – in colour, this is a subtle pinot noir that showcases a smooth finesse throughout. Balancing cherry flavours with a hint of spices, this one’s a vintage with hidden depths and silky tannin.
Petit Chablis Domaine Lavantureux 2015: The vines of the Lavantureux family are divided into Chablis and Petit Chablis by an imaginary boundary running through their vineyards. This implies that though the appellation is ‘Petit’, it displays quite a few qualities of its more pedigreed neighbour. Notes of citrus and white flowers create a harmonious balance and the refreshing acidity can be a perfect companion with goat cheese.
Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay