François Raquillet uses fruit from three different sectors of Mercurey to make this superb old vine cuvée from parcels that are all over 60 years old. It's sweetly oaked, with an appealing interplay between red plum and strawberry fruit. Tangy acidity and Asian spices complete the picture. Great value.
92/100 Tim Atkin MW for Decanter (it also features in Tim’s Best Value Red Burgundies of the vintage)
Lovely pure juice, with morning woodland scents and fresh, crunchy red fruits on the nose and palate. Energetic, with long spicy tannins, hint of tobacco, sandalwood and even a touch of basil on the finish. This is new breed of the old school style Burgundy – as enjoyable to the habituées of St James’ clubs as to Hackney wine bar enthusiasts.
As Burgundy becomes ever more expensive, thankfully Chalonnais winemakers in the south have risen to the challenge of fulfilling the need for more affordable, delicious wines. François Raquillet, the 11th generation of grape growers in Mercurey, is widely recognised as the best producer in the village.
He has 10 hectares of superbly sited, mostly old, vines and believes in low yields, mature (rather than super-ripe) fruit and a severe selection at the table de tri. The depth, richness and concentration which characterise his wines are a result of this, rather than any over extraction.