2013 Domaine Thenard, “Cellier aux Moines” Givry 1er Cru

$42.60 btl / $255.60 cs (case of 6 x 750ml)

Today’s offer is the 2013 Domaine Thenard, Cellier aux Moines Givry 1er Cru, with limited-production we usually do not have enough allocation to offer this to private clients, so this is a treat. Only 40 cases of 6 bottles available. Domaine Thenard, a small 3.22 hectare vineyard in Burgundy, has optimal southern exposure and its mix of clay and lime soils contributs to rich and sturctured wines. The “Cellier aux Moines” parcel are very old with records dating back to 1258 and is among the most complex cuvées in Givry. With a terrific currant color, and a rich, intense fruit bouquet with aromas of ripe dark berries, this Pinot Noir has lots of pure fruit on the palate. Oak is used in fermentation bringing soft and subtle tannins and this beautifully balanced, velvety wine offers good power, backed by persistence and a lingering finish. This is a wine that can be enjoyed after a long aging period.

The wines of the Côte Chalonnaise in southern Burgundy tend to be a bit less sought-after simply because they’re not from the Côte d’Or. However, the lay of the land, the climate, sun exposure, the geology, the grapes and the tradition are all similar, and so are the wines. Several of the Chalonnaise villages – particularly Rully and Montagny for Chardonnay and Mercurey and Givry for Pinot Noir – can produce really excellent wines that generally sell for significantly less than those of the Côte d’Or.

The 2013 vintage out of Burgundy brought a small but a high-quality harvest. Weather challenges at the beginning of the season brought some concern, however, an Indian summer coupled with calculated timing for picking resulted in delicious wines suited for short – medium term drinking.

Price: Case of 6 at $255.60 ($42.60 per bottle)

Drink: Now or cellar for up to 10 years

Blend/Body: 100% Pinot Noir, Light/Medium-Bodied

Food Pairing: Grilled chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce, veal chops, duck, game, hard cheeses and charcuiterie