Le Domaine D’Edouard Bourgogne Cotes D’Auxerre Pinot Noir 2022

Le Domaine D'Edouard works in the Côtes d'Auxerre, a cool corner of northern Burgundy near Chablis, well to the north of the Côte d'Or. The grape is Pinot Noir, grown here on limestone-marl soils that, with the marginal northern climate, produce a lighter, higher-acid and more mineral style than the fuller reds further south. The estate is farmed biodynamically and organically, which keeps the vineyard's living soil at the centre of the work. The short, cool growing season holds the grape's bright acidity and gives a wine of restraint rather than weight. Maturation runs to a year in French oak, used with a light touch so the wood frames the fruit rather than dominating it, adding a little spice and gentle structure through slow oxygen exchange. The wine is a pale, bright ruby. The nose leads with red cherry, redcurrant and wild strawberry over rose and a fresh herbal lift. The palate is light bodied and crisp, with supple tannin, lively acidity and an earthy, mineral finish. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 15 degrees. It suits roast poultry, duck and mushroom dishes.