Charlopin-Tissier Bourgogne 2017

Ten years ago, sommeliers begged restaurant customers to try Pinot Noir. In most cases, the sommelier would often get a blank stare and an order for Napa Cabernet. Today, it's one of the most sought-after varieties in the world. From California, Oregon, New Zealand, and beyond, winemakers are finding the best spots for this notoriously difficult-to-grow grape. Historically, however, the home of Pinot Noir is in the Burgundy region of France.

Pinot Noir, especially Burgundy, is all about aromatics. No other variety competes. There is something ethereal about the aroma when you first stick your nose into a glass of superb Burgundy, especially when drinking one of those hard-to-get bottles. The best Burgundy is perfumed with spice, flowers, fresh and dried fruits, with a touch of new oak to wrap it all into an incredible present.

Today, we introduce Domaine Charlopin-Tissier, who is making huge waves in the international wine community. Why? An absolutely world-class winemaking pedigree and incredible vineyards. Yann Charlopin was the right-hand man of Jean-Marie Fourrier, whose wines are synonymous with elegance and power. Good luck finding those wines. Jean-Marie Fourrier learned winemaking from the GOAT of Burgundy, Henri Jayer. To help put this in perspective - it's like learning guitar from Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix.

A subtle push from Fourrier led Yann to purchase a steep 10-acre block just outside of Marsannay. This vineyard is unique because its terroir is an extension of the same soil found in Gevrey-Chambertin, an undisputed top village in Burgundy. Yann combined this vineyard with his wife's family's holdings in Marsannay to form a world-class Domaine. 

Today we are offering Charlopin-Tissier's 2019? Bourgogne Rouge from their aforementioned vineyard just outside of Marsannay. The blend includes a bit of superb, declassified Marsannay Premier Cru Pinot Noir for good measure.
“The first aroma on this wine is Tahitian vanilla bean, clove, and cardamom-coming from the amazingly integrated oak on the wine.  Freshly spiced berries, and potpourri carry through into the palate with a beautiful freshness. The finish is brilliantly concentrated, and keeps going like the end of “Hotel California” 

The Charlopin-Tissier's 2019? Bourgogne Rouge brings to mind great Burgundy - at a fraction of the price. Oh - and that amazing label…