Côte de Nuits-Villages rouge Les Perrières 2008
Côte de Nuits-Villages blanc 2009

Here are two contrasting consecutive vintages – typical of Burgundy.  2008 was hard work for the vigneron who needed to spend much time amongst the vines.  However, it became known as the ‘miracle vintage’ as a beautiful autumn allowed the final ripening and maturation that was needed.  The resulting wines are delicious, with good fruit underpinned by good structure.  Vintage 2009 by contrast, was one of the best in decades.  It was much easier for the vigneron too, as the fine weather throughout the summer and autumn produced perfectly ripe, healthy fruit.

Your exclusive Côte de Nuits-Villages rouge Les Perrières comes from a small parcel of iron-rich red soils containing a mix of very young and old vines, some dating back more than 60 years.  Vincent likes minimal intervention in the winery, preferring to let the fruit flavours come to the fore.  The wine has had 12 months in 15% new French oak barrels.  The colour is bright ruby red, and there is the classic hedgerow fruit and undergrowth aromatics.  The palate is fresh with cherry and strawberry fruit and a soft, creamy texture.  There is good structure which bodes well for the long-term.  Vincent says that his wines start to show after three to four years but will age up to ten years.  Over time, the classical animal and gamey aromas will develop and the tannins become smooth and round and almost imperceptible.  This is a great wine to drink with feathered game or a classicBurgundy dish of rabbit in mustard sauce.

Your Côte de Nuits-Villages blanc is from the much-heralded 2009 vintage.  Whenever Vincent mentions 2009, he beams broadly.  Vincent is one of the few vignerons in the Côte de Nuits who still has top quality, old Pinot Blanc vines planted and this wine is a rather unique blend of 20% Pinot Blanc and 80% Chardonnay.  It has been aged for eight months in a mix of oak barrels (one third new) and stainless steel tank.  Like last year’s lovely Trophy-winner, this is very special indeed with a nose of white flowers and subtle toasty oak and a palate that has minerality and subtlety, but lovely richness and length too. Delightful once again!  Drink over the next two to three years, with delicate fish or chicken dishes.