MARSANNAY
CHÂTEAU DE MARSANNAY
Sylvain Pabiot, the technical director, emphasized the critical role of leaf- and fruit-thinning in July. To combat the risk of botrytis, he chose to mow the lush grasses between the vines rather than plow them under. With increased rainfall recorded in the south of the Côte de Nuits, he noted a significant rise in potential alcohol levels toward the end of August—about 2.5% per week—and preemptively arranged for 100 pickers to begin harvest on September 9, a week earlier than initially planned. Consequently, actual alcohol levels averaged around 13.5%. He also moderated punch-down during fermentation, capitalizing on the easy extraction and achieving well-structured, fleshy wines despite significant yields.
Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru Les Champeaux
The 2023 vintage promises exciting wines with bright acidity and red fruit character, noted for their vivacity and balance.
DOMAINE BRUNO CLAIR
Arthur Clair, who took charge of vinification in 2017, noted the near-perfect growing season, despite a hot September. He praised Edouard’s vineyard management, which involved careful debudding and green-harvesting to optimize quality. Wines were harvested at between 12.5% and 13% ABV, retaining good freshness thanks to whole-bunch fermentation methods. The process was marked by a 12 to 14-day fermentation with minimal racking, maintaining freshness and allowing for a reduction in sulfur use. Arthur insisted on low oak contact to emphasize the terroir’s characteristics.
DOMAINE JEAN FOURNIER
Specializing in organic wines, the domaine aged their whites in Stockinger barrels and the reds in pièces for 18 months. The use of whole-bunch fermentation increased in 2023, contributing to the lively fruit character while maintaining clarity and freshness.
FIXIN
DOMAINE BERTHAUT-GERBET
Amalie Berthaut is recognized for crafting fruit-forward wines within the Fixin appellation. With her tenth vintage in 2023, she favored a minimal use of whole-bunch, focusing instead on preserving the fruit profile through careful fermentation practices. She described the vintage as one yielding balanced, fresh wines, reminiscent of the excellent 2017 season.
Fixin En Combe Roy
This village wine showcased expressive black fruit flavors, described as accessible and smooth—ideal for early enjoyment. The premier crus, such as Fixin Premier Cru Les Arvelets, offered a bit more substance, presenting crunchy tannins and joyful freshness.
For detailed tasting notes and more information on the Burgundy region’s wines, visit: