Louis Latour Côte de Beaune-Villages 2021

Louis Latour Côte de Beaune-Villages is a monovarietal Pinot Noir from the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy. The Côte de Beaune-Villages appellation applies only to red wines drawn from sixteen named communes of the Côte de Beaune, which gives a house the freedom to blend across villages for balance and consistency. Louis Latour is a family firm with more than two hundred years of history and the largest Grand Cru holding on the Côte d'Or, alongside a wider range across Burgundy. The vineyards here sit on the classic limestone and marl slopes of the Côte de Beaune, soils that lend Pinot Noir its red-fruited finesse, fresh acidity and savoury, earthy depth. The wine is aged in oak, used judiciously to round the tannins and add a little cedar and spice without dominating. From the cooler 2021 vintage it shows real freshness and lift. Expect a medium ruby colour, a nose of red cherry, raspberry and gentle forest floor, and a medium-bodied palate with fine tannin, bright acidity and a savoury, lingering finish. Serve at 16 degrees in a large glass, decanting briefly if young. It is a fine match for roast poultry, duck and mushroom dishes.