Albert Bichot : Grands-Echezeaux Grand Cru Dom. du Clos Frantin 2018

Characteristics and tasting notes of the Grands-Échezeaux Grand Cru Dom. du Clos Frantin 2018

Tasting

Nose

The bouquet reveals itself to be dense and complex, unveiling aromas of stone fruits such as cherry and plum, accompanied by floral notes of rose and peony. Subtle spicy touches enrich the whole, gradually evolving towards nuances of undergrowth and leather.

Palate

The 2018 vintage expresses fine power combined with remarkable elegance. The voluptuous texture is accompanied by refined tannins, well present but perfectly integrated, blending harmoniously with a discreet and delicate woody framework. The finish stands out for its length and persistence.

Food and wine pairing

This grand cru pairs beautifully with finely prepared meats, whether roasted or served in sauce: beef, lamb, pork, game or duck. It also complements characterful cheeses, from medium to full-bodied. Among the suggested pairings, beef fillet en croûte with morels, topped with a red wine sauce, is a particularly harmonious choice.

Service and storage

The Grands-Échezeaux Grand Cru Dom. du Clos Frantin 2018 is best served at a temperature between 16 and 17°C. This wine has an aging potential of 7 to 10 years and beyond.

A Burgundian grand cru combining power and refinement

The estate

Founded in 1831 by Bernard Bichot in Monthélie, the House of Albert Bichot is rooted in more than eight centuries of Burgundian heritage. Under the direction of Albéric Bichot, it now cultivates over 100 hectares of vines spread across six estates throughout Burgundy, including 13 hectares of grands crus and 26 hectares of premiers crus. A pioneer of organic farming in the region, Albert Bichot also stands out for its commitment to heritage as Grand Founding Patron of the Cité des Climats et des Vins de Bourgogne.

The vineyard

The Grands-Échezeaux is located above the village of Flagey-Échezeaux, on the slope between the Premiers Crus of Vosne-Romanée and Clos Vougeot. The terroir rests on brown limestone soils with a significant clay component, with the distinctive feature of a rocky slab also present in the upper part of Clos Vougeot. The Domaine du Clos Frantin owns 0.25 hectare there, spread across 2 plots, planted with vines averaging 35 to 40 years old. The name of the appellation originates from the Gallo-Roman term "chesaux," referring to a group of dwellings, likely an ancient hamlet.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes for the Grands-Échezeaux Grand Cru Dom. du Clos Frantin 2018 are hand-harvested, followed by sorting at the estate. Maceration and fermentation extend over 18 to 21 days in temperature-controlled wooden vats. Aging takes place over 16 to 18 months in oak barrels, of which 40 to 50% are new.

Grape variety

Pinot Noir