Bourgogne rouge AOC 2022

A Bourgogne rouge that doesn't disguise its origins: fragrant, vital, with tannin of powdery finesse. The Domaine Henri & Gilles Buisson in Saint-Romain has worked biodynamically for decades and keeps cellar interventions to a minimum.

The grapes come mainly from the domaine's own plots in Saint-Romain, from vines at least 30 years old at around 425 metres above sea level. The main share comes from a plot above Les Sous Roches, with a smaller portion from declassified village sites in Saint-Romain. The domaine's parcels lie on the limestone soils of the Côte de Beaune.

Pinot Noir. After hand-harvesting, the grapes are partially destemmed, and fermentation proceeds spontaneously in stainless steel tanks, with punching down and pumping over of the cap. Malolactic fermentation takes place spontaneously in barrel. Ageing lasts ten to twelve months in 228-, 350- and 500-litre barriques as well as in tonneaux, of which at most 10% are replaced each year. Frédéric Buisson tastes daily and racks the barrels whenever he judges it sensible. Fining is done with bentonite, filtration remains very light.

The opening brings sour cherries, along with Darjeeling tea and yeast. Beforehand on the nose, morello cherries, strawberries and raspberries with tangy barberries, earthy nuances and a touch of dry wood. Juicy, fresh, with pleasant drive and fine tannin.

Charcuterie and dark French country bread, bruschetta with wild mushrooms, tomatoes and thyme or risotto with radicchio and bresaola.

The estate is Biodyvin-certified. Sulphur was added only at bottling, at a maximum of 40 to 50 mg/l total sulphite. 12.5% vol., dry.