2021 Mercurey 1er Cru `Les Puillets`, Domaine du Château Philippe le Hardi, Burgundy, France

This magnificent property, which dates back to the 9th century, is also known as Château Philippe le Hardi, as it was once owned by the first Duc of Burgundy. Philippe le Hardi is famous as the person who banned the cultivation of Gamay in the Côte d'Or, saying in his edict of 1395 that only Pinot Noir could be used in the production of red wines from the already fabled slopes. Despite its long history, the property had fallen on hard times until it was taken over by the French bank Crédit Agricole in recent years. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes were cold soaked for seven days at 8°C to extract colour and flavour from the skins. Temperature-controlled fermentation lasted 12 to 14 days with daily pumping over, finishing with a rack and return, or 'délestage', to impart the grainy tannins that give the wines a lovely structure and length. The wine was then aged in oak barrels for 13 months, of which 20% was new. The fruit for the Mercurey Rouge comes from Chateau de Santenay's 72 hectares of vines planted across the Mercurey appellation. The soils are rich in clay, but the limestone is still very present as well as some areas of marl. These characteristics give the red wines of Mercurey finesse and structure.

Food pairing ideas: In the center of the region, Givry and Mercurey are known for their delicate reds. Flavors of raspberry and a touch of smokiness amid soft tannins are a superb partner for pasta coated with egg and flecked with bacon and salty cheese. 100% Pinot Noir .This wine is dark ruby in colour, it is bright and lifted with excellent concentration. the nose is elegant with aromas of ripe red fruit including cherries, and a touch of oak. The palate is full with great structure and an attractive chewy and grainy character. The finish is long and fresh.

Feature(s): Sustainable, Vegan, Vegetarian
Winemaker: Gérard Fagnoni
Alcohol (ABV): 13 %
Acidity: 5.46 g/l