2016 GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN, Domaine Taupenot-Merme. Burgundy

100% Pinot Noir

The Domaine is now run by Romain Taupenot, with his sister Virginie; they are the seventh generation of Côte de Nuits based Taupenots, though the Domaine also includes, since 2003, the vineyards of the St-Romain branch of the family. Though not certified, Taupenot-Merme has been organic since 2002. They own 13.5ha of vineyards across 21 appellations.

Their 2016 Gevrey-Chambertin was cold soaked at around 10°C to extract aromatic elements, then allowing the temperature to rise through the fermentation process. The finished wine was aged in low toast Frech oak for 12 months of which 20% were new. The bottles were then aged in cellar for 4 months before release.

2016 was another Burgundy harvest affected by April frosts followed by a cooler and wetter start to the summer than usual. Thereafter, summer was hot and dry and although yields were much reduced (for some production was tiny thanks to the frost); the energy of the vines poured into the smaller than average crop to produce some remarkably ripe wines. The reds were elegant and fruity, with good levels of acidity and a fine expression of their vineyard origins. This is a deceptively good red Burgundy vintage and now entering its 8^th year is really beginning to show its paces.

You can drink now but can equally age for another in 3-5 years. This is another serious and authentic red Burgundy. No need to decant and enjoy in large sized Burgundy glasses with plenty of “swirl room”!

Very pure, mineral, with elevated cherry and raspberry fruit, and medium bodied with a light oak framework. There is real elegance and delicate texture here.