2023 Chateau de Chamirey Mercurey Rouge, Burgundy

Château de Chamirey Mercurey Rouge from Burgundy is a beautiful expression of Pinot Noir from the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise, shaped by the Devillard family’s long history of meticulous vineyard work. The fruit comes from several of the estate’s best Mercurey parcels, many with old vines planted on slopes rich in limestone, clay and small pockets of marl. This mix of soils gives the wine its lifted aromatics, elegant texture and the gentle earthiness that defines classic Mercurey. The domaine has spent decades refining its approach to Pinot Noir, focusing on low yields, careful canopy management and harvesting at just the right moment to preserve freshness and finesse.

The winemaking is sensitive and traditional. Grapes are hand picked and sorted with precision before fermenting in small vats where gentle extraction protects the purity of the fruit. Ageing takes place in French oak barrels, including a modest proportion of new oak that adds spice and structure without overwhelming the wine’s natural elegance. This balanced approach allows Mercurey Rouge to sit comfortably between richness and refinement, expressing both the warmth of the Côte Chalonnaise and the grace of Burgundy Pinot Noir.

In the glass it shows a vivid ruby colour. The nose opens with bright red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry followed by notes of redcurrant, rose petals, gentle spice and a soft thread of forest floor. As it breathes, subtle hints of cocoa, dried herbs, crushed stone and violet appear, giving the wine a lovely aromatic depth.

The palate is supple, pure and beautifully balanced with a core of juicy red fruits supported by fine tannins and lively acidity. Flavours of cherry, pomegranate and cranberry sit alongside spice, soft earth, a touch of oak sweetness and a light mineral finish. The texture is silky yet firm enough to give structure, and the length is graceful with lingering red fruit and a savoury edge that reflects its limestone soils. This is Burgundy that leans toward charm and drinkability while still offering authentic character and complexity.

It pairs effortlessly with roast chicken and thyme, duck breast with cherry glaze, mushroom ragù, pork fillet, grilled salmon, goat cheese tart, or simple charcuterie. Its fresh structure also makes it a wonderful match for herb roasted vegetables or lighter pasta dishes. Cellar potential is six to ten years, gaining softer tannins and more savoury nuance with time.