2023 Bachelet-Monnot Bourgogne Rouge, Burgundy

Rich ruby purple. A little chunky on the nose. You can tell the ripeness on the palate though, dark cherries and raspberry and a slight feeling of heat to finish. There is plenty to like in the fruit, but not the ideal balance. Drink from 2026-2028.

86-87 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

Domaine Bachelet-Monnot Bourgogne Rouge from Burgundy is a wonderfully pure and expressive introduction to the estate’s elegant house style. Crafted by brothers Marc and Alexandre Bachelet, this wine demonstrates their ability to bring finesse and detail to even their most accessible cuvée. It captures the beauty of Pinot Noir grown on limestone-rich soils near Dezize-lès-Maranges and Santenay, areas known for producing wines with both fruit intensity and mineral precision.

The grapes are hand harvested from estate-owned vineyards and vinified with the same care as the domaine’s Premier Cru wines. A portion of whole bunches is included in the fermentation to add aromatic lift and fine structure, with native yeasts guiding a slow, gentle ferment. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, only a small portion new, for about 12 months before bottling. The result is a Bourgogne Rouge that offers a real sense of place and refinement — supple, fragrant and beautifully balanced.

In the glass it shows a bright ruby hue. The nose is delicate and inviting, with aromas of red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry layered with floral notes, spice and a hint of forest floor. On the palate it is medium bodied and silky, showing ripe red fruit, fine tannins and refreshing acidity. There is a subtle mineral line and savoury depth that carry through to the long, elegant finish, making this a Burgundy of both charm and precision.

Bachelet-Monnot Bourgogne Rouge pairs beautifully with roast chicken, duck breast, mushroom risotto or charcuterie. It also complements earthy vegetable dishes or soft cheeses. Best enjoyed over the next five to eight years, it will continue to evolve, gaining complexity and subtle forest floor notes with time.