Raphaelle Guyot L'Idylle

Vintage: 2020

Origin: Burgundy, France

Grapes: Pinot Noir

Alcohol: 13.5%

Some of the most underappreciated Burgundies we've ever tasted are produced by Raphaelle Guyot. Her property is close to Saint Bris, the only appellation in Burgundy that permits Sauvignon Blanc to be used as a component of the AOC region. Geographically, it is virtually closer to the Loire than it is to Burgundy's actual heartland. Raphaelle uses a combination of fruit from negociants and her own farm. She works the soils with her horse and tries to cultivate various grains next to the vines as part of her holistic approach to winemaking and farming.

The negociant fruit used in the L'Idylle cuvée was grown in the Auxerrois on a single parcel of clay and limestone. Hand-harvested grapes are whole-bunch macerated for 15 days, but the method is more "infusion" style than "extraction" style, involving minimal punchdowns and pumpovers. After being pressed, the grapes are matured in stainless steel for 7 months. With earthy undertones and brambly red fruit, the nose is a perfect example of a Pinot Noir from Burgundy. These characteristics continue on the palate, where you'll also encounter refined tannins and even more red fruit.