On Sale: $59.94 (was: $79.94)*
It may feel like every quality minded producer in Burgundy is making wines exclusively for high flying collectors these days, at least as far as their prices are concerned, and between those cult boutiques and the bargain bin ‘Bourgogne Rouge’, the pickings can seem slim. If vignerons like Xavier Monnot are any indication however, then it is still possible to find delicious Burgundy for the rest of us, without paying hundreds of dollars. An “avowed devotee of the pleasures of the table” (Wine Advocate), Monnot’s wines are “gourmand, charming and expressive,” and today’s 2017 ‘Cents Vignes’ 1er cru is a broad, layered, and downright tasty bottle of Beaune made for good food and company. Bursting with “aromas of ripe cherries, cassis, licorice and spices” it holds nothing back, and has nothing to hide, which combined with today’s very palatable price under $60, makes it the perfect bottle of 1er cru Burgundy to enjoy whenever the moment demands.
Xavier Monnot may be one of those vignerons who lets his own personality direct the style of the domaine, but he also works to preserve the legacy of his grandfather Rene Monier and their family’s 300 years of history. Monnot balances his pursuit of delicious and accessible Burgundy without bowing to superficiality, and the ‘Cents Vignes’ is one of his “most successful reds” (Wine Advocate). It is also a perfect expression of what we look for in a great red Beaune, and is ready to enjoy today, no patience required!
90 points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: "One of Monnot's most successful reds, the 2017 Beaune 1er Cru Les Cents Vignes bursts with aromas of ripe cherries, cassis, licorice and spices. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, ample and richly layered with a broad, lavish attack and a fleshy core, but succulent acids to balance the ripe fruit. This will drink very well on release, though I wouldn't expect it to make old bones. Drink 2018-2028" - William Kelley
90 points, Wine & Spirits: "With all of its supple black cherry and sweet plum brightness, this lasts on smoky, spicy tannins. It’s powerful, a little syrupy in its ripeness, ready to bring its fruit to roast duck."
*Offer publication date June 25, 2021. Pricing and availability subject to change.