On Sale: $49.94 (was: $59.94)*
We often think of Burgundy when we talk about wines of tradition and history, but when it comes to a standard bearer like Bouchard and their ‘Beaune du Chateau’, we often get more than we came looking for. If you’re wondering whether you’ve ever heard of a Burgundy cru called Beaune du Chateau don’t worry, there’s no such thing; this is an exclusive cuvee of Domaine Bouchard that blends 1er cru parcels from their holdings in Beaune including Les Aigrots, Clos du Roi, Bressandes and more, and they’ve been bottling it since 1907.
The result is a classic Beaune, but with an impressive level of balance and completeness. It’s not just that very few producers in Burgundy dare to make a 1er cru blend, it’s that few have the breadth of vineyard plots to make such a cuvee happen. Not only is this a rare treat from this historic producer, but a rare price too for a quality 1er cru red Burgundy, and it’s an “exceptionally rich, round and delicious seductively textured” (Burghound) Beaune that is ready to compete with 1er crus at twice the price.
“Part of the furniture since 1731” (Wine Advocate) Bouchard is one of those top quality larger producers that is increasingly able to compete with their more boutique neighbors. Renowned cellar master Frédéric Weber has turned out a “ripe but controlled” set of 2018s (Wine Advocate), and their broad based success in the vintage means that this singular ‘Beaune du Chateau’ is at its best; pretty darn good for under 50 bucks!
92 points, James Suckling: "A tight Beaune with ripe strawberries, light earth with some walnuts and vanilla pod. It’s full-bodied with round, chewy tannins and a flavorful finish."
91 points, Wine Spectator: "Lush and opulent, offering ripe cherry, plum and sweet spice flavors. Firm tannins, some from the oak, line the finish, so give this time to integrate. Best from 2022 through 2032"
90 points, Burghound: "Softly mentholated aromas of decidedly ripe red and dark currant flash hints of mocha, spice and earth. The exceptionally rich, round and delicious seductively textured medium-bodied flavors coat the palate on the sneaky long finish where noticeable warmth gradually emerges. This isn't over-the-top ripe but the sunshine of the 2018 vintage is definitely present."
*Offer publication date January 20, 2022. Pricing and availability subject to change.