Domaine Francois Raquillet Bourgogne Rouge 2017

Burgundy is a bit like a haystack too for buyers and consumers alike; a million vineyards, owned by many and produced by even more. To find value, you are essentially looking for that needle.

In the summer of 2015, I found myself way off the rue nationale, driving through the rolling, lush, green hills of the Côtes Chalonnaise to find the estate of François Raquillet. The night before, the sommelier at the restaurant we were in steered towards a brilliant bottle of Bourgogne Rouge from Raquillet and suggested we seek him out. It was worth the trip.

François organically tends around 40 acres of limestone-laden vineyards in the appellation of Mercurey, producing some of the most delicious Pinot Noir I have ever tasted from Burgundy. The fruit quality of his 2017 Bourgogne Rouge is just like that first one I had, downright crunchy. It’s dark and juicy but light on its feet, and incredibly drinkable.

Vinified entirely in oak, this is juicy, berried-up Pinot Noir with a lip-smacking mineral finish that makes it absolutely perfect at any table.