Domaine Besancenot
2011 Beaune Premier Cru Clos du Roi
A wonderful example of a classic Burgundy Pinot Noir. Combine with other Beaune premiers crus from Domaine Besancenot for an instant introduction to the subtleties of French terroirs and vintages.
A distinctive and quite expressive nose for such a young wine—suggestive of orange water, sandalwood, roses, and earth with a little oak and woody spice in the background. Will need time to open up, but approachable even now, offering subtle hints of cherries, strawberries, and something earthy on the palate, these flavors lingering on an extended finish marked by fruity sweetness jockeying with delicate tannins. Understated, but likely to repay cellaring.
Food pairing: Pigeon, game hen, duck, other game or fowl, lamb
A youthful, somewhat shy nose suggests red fruit and sweet spice along with something woodsy. A floral perfume suggests roses. Fleshy red berry flavors contribute to a chewy, juicy texture. Medium body with a soft, rounded quality on the palate. Good fruit intensity nicely balanced by moderate acidity, fine-grained tannins, and well integrated oak. Attractive, long finish. Likely to be more approachable around 2016 and should drink well through around 2021.
The Creator of This Wine
Domaine Besancenot
Successful women winemakers? Just look at Thérèse Besancenot! Heiress to six generations of winemakers, Thérèse, along with brother Dominique, took over her father’s domaine in 2006, and has since been written up by the BBC, Vintages magazine, and the Globe and Mail. “Wine is a passion,” says Thérèse. “It comes from the heart.”
| Producer: | Domaine Besancenot |
| Region: | Burgundy |
| Year: | 2011 |
| Maturity: | 2016-2020 |
| Alcohol: | 13% |
| Bottle size: | 750ml |
| Color: | Red |
| Varietal: | Pinot Noir |
| Flavors: | Raspberry, Floral, Earth |
| Body: | Medium |
| Soul: | Elegant |
