Description

Benjamin Leroux always tries to over deliver here. The blend comprises of declassified Santenay villages and 1er cru with Fixin in addition there is 25% estate Bourgogne in Pommard and Meursault. “Top Value. A distinctly earthy and somber red and dark berry fruit nose exhibits plenty of forest floor character that is also reflected by the cool and detailed flavors that offer excellent depth and persistence. This is a really lovely effort for its level and well worth a look.” 87 points, Allen Meadows, Burghound, Issue 62

Known for the work he does at Domaine Comte Armand. But with the 2007 vintage Benjamin’s own label was launched. Situated in a brand new winery in the centre of Beaune that he shares with Dominique Lafon. Two to five barrels of over twenty terroirs are produced each year. Leroux has access to fruit from vineyards he manages, vineyards he owns. Another source is fruit from growers that can meet his standards. Half of these vineyards are currently organic or biodynamic. The Leroux style is modern and clean with bright fruit and beautiful perfumes.

Burgundy

The classic part of Burgundy known as the Cote D’Or (the slope of gold) is essentially one vineyard that is 60km long and maybe 5km at its widest. From this limestone ridge some of the most complex, long-lived and aromatic wines are produced from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Cistercian monks who owned the land codified the entire region and so each small plot has a name.

Bourgogne

The entry level to Burgundy. The wines can be from vineyards outside of the better appellations or declassified from high ranks. That means you may be drinking a Grand Cru vineyard at Bourgogne pricing! Quality is variable but the great producers put as much care into their entry level as they do their great wines.

Pinot Noir

This is the most elusive grape. It is relatively early ripening and extremely sensitive to terroir. Its perfect place on earth is the Cote d’Or in Burgundy. So haunting are great red Burgundy’s charms that growers everywhere try to emulate them. Pinot Noir is not just a one trick pony, it can make great reds, rosé, sparkling and even sweet wines, whites on occasion and I’ve tasted a decent fortified Pinot Noir too.