Bouchard Père & Fils : Beaune 1er cru "Marconnets" Domaine 2018

Bouchard have owned vineyards here in the northernmost part of Beaune since 1791. They currently harvest from 2.32 ha. The soils are more clay than limestone, with marly outcrops on the mid-slope. Aged 12–14 months in French oak, of which 30–40% is new. Winemaker Fred Weber describes this site as more like the Côte de Nuits in terms of terroir and its later ripening (typically 8 days later than Les Avaux). pH 3.66, TA 4.9 g/l (expressed as tartaric). Subtle cherry-scented aroma, beautifully rich and generous in fruit, mouth-filling and rounded and already quite approachable, with a hint of vanilla sweetness. Finesse to the tannins on the finish. Very finely structured and fresh at the end. Great length and perfect balance. (JH)

The 2018 Beaune Les Marconnets 1er Cru has a perfumed bouquet of crushed stone, raspberry and wild strawberry, almost chalky beneath the carapace of red fruit. Fine delineation, better than Clos du Roi by direct comparison. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, yet there is more backbone and focus compared to Clos du Roi, with commendable minerality on the finish. Worth seeking out. Tasted at the Bouchard Père tasting in London.

Bouchard has owned vines here since 1791 and today owns 2.32ha. The vineyard is located at the northern extremities of the Beaune appellation, with yellow/grey marls on a steeper slope. Subtle, precise and restrained, there is lovely purity on the nose and palate. Red cherry, blueberry and wild blackberry fruits noted by Fred Weber. The tannins are evident, but there is plenty of finesse here, allied to concentration and vibrant acidity. A very classy Beaune Premier Cru.