Chandon de Briailles – Savigny 1er Lavières

Located in Savigny les Beaune, Domaine Chandon de Briailles has been in the same family since 1834. Claude de Nicolay and her brother François are currently responsible for running the 34 acres biodynamic Estate. They craft traditionally styled wines from one of the Côte d’Or’s great terroirs, the hill of Corton and its surrounding villages. In the cellar, no enological products are used, no tartaric acid, no exogenous yeasts, no tannin powder, no enzymes, etc. The winery itself has also been certified biodynamic since 2012. The Chandon de Briailles wines are quite unique in the fact that there is a negligible amount of new oak for aging. Domaine Chandon de Briailles is part of the association of Les Domaines Familiaux de Tradition; 28 of the most prestigious domaines in Burgundy.

Biodynamic. South / southeast facing terroir, mid-slope and predominantly limestone (Lavières comes from the word lave which refers to the flat limestone slabs found in the soil and locally used to cover the roofs). The name gives you a clue as to the nature of the soil which is very rocky, with only 30cm of topsoil - today ploughed by horse - quickly giving way to the mother rock of fragmented limestone. 100% old vine Pinot Noir. Traditional Burgundy vinification. No added sulfite.

The plot lies parallel to the road, benefitting from cool air coming down the valley from Bouilland, on a granular clay. Very pure purple. The whole bunch adds something vegetal which is temporary. Superb in the mouth though, it must be said, with this sublime sensuality and a lovely lingering finish. 

Pure, perfumed bouquet with scents of raspberry and peony, the 100% whole bunch barely perceptable. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins, a fine bead of acidity, cohesive with fine backbone and a slightly peppery, clove-tinged finish. Wonderful.

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