Jean-Claude Boisset Hautes-Côtes de Beaune 2021

Jean-Claude Boisset draws this wine from the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune, the elevated appellation in the hills behind the famous slopes of Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. Sitting higher and cooler than the Côte itself, these vineyards ripen Pinot Noir more slowly, which gives the wine its bright acidity, lighter frame and red-fruited character. The limestone and clay soils that run through the Côte d'Or lend the variety its mineral, earthy edge and its perfume. The wine is aged twelve months in French oak barrels, where gentle oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds a light frame of spice while leaving the fruit and the cool-climate freshness intact. It pours a bright medium ruby. The nose is classic Burgundian Pinot Noir, with red cherry, raspberry and redcurrant lifted by rose petal and a savoury, earthy undertone. The palate is light to medium bodied, with fine silky tannins, fresh acidity and a clean red-fruited finish that reflects the altitude and the limestone. At 12 percent, it is a fresh, food-friendly style. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees in a wide glass. It suits poultry, game birds and mushrooms.