2023 Domaine Lucien Muzard Santenay Champs Claude Vieilles Vignes, Burgundy

30% whole bunch vinification. Two foudres (15 & 10 barrels) and a few more barrels to complete. A solid well defined ruby purple. The whole bunches do show in a crushed dark strawberry fruit, adds character. Full of fruit with plenty of tannins as well to keep it in harness. Should not take too long. A fine long finish. Well made. Drink from 2027-2032. Tasted Oct 2024.

90-92 points Jasper Morris MW Inside Burgundy

Domaine Lucien Muzard is one of Santenay's most respected family estates, with brothers Claude and Hervé Muzard continuing generations of traditional Burgundian winemaking. Their Champs Claude Vieilles Vignes is sourced from mature vines that naturally produce low yields, delivering a wine of greater concentration, complexity and site expression. It is a wonderful example of the value and authenticity that have made the domaine a favourite among Burgundy lovers.

The 2023 vintage delivered beautifully balanced fruit, with warm days and cool nights encouraging exceptional flavour development while preserving freshness and aromatic lift. Gentle extraction and restrained oak maturation allow the old-vine fruit and limestone-rich soils to shine, creating a wine of purity, structure and finesse.

Bright ruby with crimson highlights, the bouquet reveals aromas of wild cherry, raspberry and redcurrant layered with rose petals, warm spice and subtle forest floor notes. As the wine evolves, hints of crushed stone, fine cedar and earthy complexity emerge, adding depth and intrigue. The palate is beautifully structured, combining vibrant red berry fruit with silky tannins, lively acidity and a graceful mineral thread. Elegant and persistent, the finish lingers with savoury spice and refined balance.

A superb partner for roast duck, grilled quail, mushroom pithivier, herb roasted chicken or mature washed rind cheeses. Delicious in its youth yet capable of graceful evolution, this expressive old-vine Santenay will continue to reward careful cellaring.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2036.