Louis Latour : Beaune 1er cru "Vignes Franches" 2023

Characteristics and tasting notes of the Beaune 1er cru "Vignes Franches" 2023 Louis Latour

Tasting notes

Colour
This red wine reveals a beautiful ruby colour.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet opens with notes of red and black fruits, blending black cherry, raspberry and crisp strawberry. It then gains complexity with touches of undergrowth, black tea, fig jam, liquorice and a subtle hint of nutmeg.

Palate
Full-bodied and fleshy, the palate offers a round profile supported by silky, finely textured tannins. The fruity and mineral aromas extend elegantly towards a long, clean finish, enhanced by delicate spicy nuances.

Food and wine pairing

This wine pairs perfectly with traditional French dishes such as beef bourguignon, duck breast or woodcock. Its structure also allows it to accompany roasted poultry, beef carpaccio, grilled aubergines, as well as characterful soft cheeses like camembert or livarot.

Service and storage

The Beaune 1er cru "Vignes Franches" 2023 can be enjoyed now, although it will benefit from one to two additional years in the cellar to fully open up. It will continue to evolve favourably until around 2033.

The authentic expression of a Premier Cru from Beaune

The estate

Founded in 1797 in France, the House of Louis Latour is a historic institution of Burgundy. Still family-owned and independent after more than two centuries of existence, it is now run by Florent Latour, alongside Eléonore Latour, representing the twelfth generation. The estate oversees 48 hectares of vines, a significant portion of which is classified as Grand Cru. The property stands out for its deep commitment to sustainable viticulture and for the unique distinction of owning its own cooperage, ensuring complete control over the ageing of its wines.

The vineyard

The "Vignes Franches" plot is located mid-slope on the south-facing side of the Beaune escarpment. This early-ripening terroir benefits from full southern exposure, promoting optimal grape maturity. The vines, averaging 35 years old, thrive on soils composed of clay and limestone, scattered with small stones that ensure excellent drainage and retain heat. Yields are strictly limited to 40 hectolitres per hectare.

The vintage

2023 was marked by significant mildew pressure, the highest of the past decade. These demanding weather conditions required constant attention. Despite these challenges and below-average yields, the growing cycle resulted in grapes with an excellent level of ripeness.

Winemaking and ageing

To craft this Beaune 1er cru "Vignes Franches" 2023, the grapes are hand-harvested and then manually sorted upon arrival at the winery. Fermentation takes place in traditional open vats, with complete malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for 10 to 12 months in medium-toast French oak barrels, made by the house's own cooperage, with 25% new oak.

Grape variety

Pinot Noir.