Pierre Girardin Bourgogne Pinot Noir Éclat de Calcaire 2023

Pierre Girardin is a young Burgundian producer carrying on a long family winemaking tradition, having set up his own domaine after learning under his father. The name Éclat de Calcaire, a nod to limestone, points to the soils behind this Bourgogne Pinot Noir. Limestone is central to red Burgundy: it drains well, reflects light and warmth, and gives Pinot Noir its freshness, tension and mineral character. Burgundy's cool continental climate ripens the grape slowly, preserving acidity and the delicate red fruit and floral aromatics the region is known for. The wine is aged twelve months in French oak barrels, where gentle oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds a light spice without covering the fruit. The colour is a bright, light ruby, with aromas of red cherry and raspberry lifted by rose, gentle spice and a fresh herbal note. The palate is medium bodied and silky, with fine tannins, bright acidity and a clean, mineral finish that reflects the limestone. This is an approachable, well-made introduction to red Burgundy. Serve lightly cooled at 15 to 16 degrees, with poultry, game birds or mushroom dishes.