Irancy: Northern Reds in the Land of Cherries
Irancy, a charming village in Burgundy, has become a noteworthy destination for wine enthusiasts due to its unique red varieties, including Pinot Noir and César. Located just 18 km southwest of Chablis, the region gained its AOC status in 1998, which recognizes its rich winemaking tradition.
The region’s history reveals that César grapes were cultivated here over 2,000 years ago, and the Charriat family has been producing wine since the 1550s. Their commitment to maintaining traditional practices while exploring modern techniques demonstrates a balance of heritage and innovation.
Gabin Richoux, a key figure in promoting Irancy, explains that the area has transitioned from diverse agricultural practices that included cherry and cereal production to focusing primarily on wine. With approximately 220 hectares currently under vine out of 315 hectares in total, Irancy’s growers are also pushing for classified premier cru status for the best of their vineyards.
The geographical layout of Irancy, surrounded by hills, creates a natural amphitheater that provides excellent conditions for grape growing. These slopes shield the vineyards from harsh weather, allowing Pinot Noir to ripen successfully. Unaffected by frost issues that plagued other parts of Burgundy, Irancy capitalizes on its favorable microclimate, benefiting from well-draining Kimmeridgian limestone and clay soils.
Within this amphitheater lie various climats that are recognized for their quality, with numerous south-facing slopes that have historically produced the highest-quality grapes. Gabin notes differences in style among the various climats, with some producing richer and more full-bodied wines while others yield elegant and mineral-driven expressions.
Despite having only 12 wine-producing families, a total of 53 producers operate in the region, coming from their vineyards or sourcing fruit. A significant proportion of the vineyards are now managed organically, reflecting a shift towards sustainable practices, especially after the Charriat family, influenced by past agricultural mishaps, made the decision to pursue organic farming.
The wines of Irancy are often noted for their robust character, with a traditional inclusion of César, which contributes to distinctive styles. While César’s integration is a point of pride, there’s been a noticeable trend toward producing wines that are ready to drink earlier. This is exemplified by Gabin’s 2022 release of a Pinot Noir from the lieu-dit Veaupessiot, aimed at consumers seeking a lighter and more approachable wine.
Irancy’s rising popularity can be attributed to its combination of quality, reasonable pricing compared to other Burgundy wines, and an increase in market reach, with exports expanding significantly over the past decade. Elegant wines such as the 100% Pinot Noir from Veaupessiot and the unique blend styles that include César highlight the growing appreciation for Irancy within the global wine community.
To explore more about the wines from Irancy, you can check Pinot Noir and other relevant topics on Burgundy.