Domaine Brelière 2006 Tasting Notes

Rully rouge Premier Cru Les Préaux 2004
Rully blanc La Barre 2004

Our exclusive Partners’ wine this year comes from the outstanding 2004 vintage. After the excesses of 2003, 2004 was a return to normality; a warm dry summer finished with a burst of refreshing rain, before perfect conditions returned for the harvest. The long, gentle ripening period resulted in grapes with good sugar levels and excellent acidity. This is a classic burgundian vintage, and the wines, while attractive in youth, will repay long term cellaring.

Our white burgundy is the Rully La Barre 2004. Made from hand-picked Chardonnay grapes, this has the classic buttery smoothness of great burgundy. The acid balance is better than in 2003, giving a wine which will mature beautifully over the next two or three years. Enjoy as an apéritif or with a variety of dishes such as fish or white meats in a sauce or mild, creamy cheeses.

Our red burgundy is the premier cru Les Préaux. This year the Pinot Noir grapes have excellent ripe tannins and elegant red-fruit flavours, especially raspberry and cherry. The fruit is underscored by the velvety-smooth tannins, gentle acidity, and a hint of spicy oak. This is classic burgundy, which will develop further complexity over the next five years. Try it with savoury entrées, like warm pâté or the local oeufs en meurette (poached eggs in a red wine sauce). It is also the perfect partner to all game birds or any meat in a rich sauce.