DOMAINE MICHELE & PATRICE RION Vielles Vignes, Chambolle-Musigny

Les Tuvilains joined the Domaine des Croix portfolio in the 2016 harvest, taking the tally of Beaune terroirs to 10 (including the village parcels). It’s in the southern part of Beaune on the lower slope, and Croix’s 0.36 hectares of very old vines are spread over two parcels planted in the 1930s. Destemmed and matured for 15 months (with 20% new oak), this is a denser expression of Beaune that reflects the clay soils of the terroir. By the way, Jasper Morris’s macabre description of the origins of the vineyard’s name in Inside Burgundy is worth a read. A great expression of a clay-rich terroir: dense and layered yet very polished.

JEAN-NOEL GAGNARD Santenay 1er Cru Clos de Tavennes , Santenay

Made with fruit grown on 60+ year old vines, the Côte de Nuits Villages Vieilles Vignes is a light, bright Pinot with aromas of light spice, pot pourri and red berries. Grapes are grown in limestone soil using biodynamic viticulture. The wine is 25-30% whole bunch, fermented with indigenous yeast with minimal added sulphur. As with all Galeyrand wines, this example is certified organic. It is aged in oak barrels, a maximum of 20% new.