With all eyes on Burgundy, Woodman presents a classic Pinot Noir…

Bouchard Père & Fils Pinot Noir Bourgogne Réserve 2018
$22.95 | LCBO# 605667

The Draw:
Anyone dipping their toe in the wine-social-media world this past week saw the heart-breaking images of fires burning to protect newly burst buds against unforgiving cold. Between frost, hail and mildew, it’s amazing how precipitous the whole season can be. One of the outliers of the past decade was 2018, a high-quality vintage that clocked in at “normal” harvest levels. (Small victories!). A lovely expression of Burgundian Pinot Noir and well-priced introduction to the domaine. As outlined in the Wine Advocate:

“The 2018 Bourgogne Pinot Noir Réserve bursts with expressive aromas of cherries, raspberries, licorice and subtle forest floor. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, fleshy and succulent, with good depth and concentration, framed by powdery tannins.”

The Domaine:
Founded in 1731 in Beaune by Michel Bouchard, Bouchard Père & Fils, is one of the oldest wine estates in Burgundy, perpetuating tradition for nearly 3 centuries and 9 generations. In 1775, Joseph Bouchard acquired his first vineyards in Volnay in the famous “Les Caillerets” climat and started to develop the family’s vineyard holdings. Over time, by acquiring various terroirs with great care and patience, Bouchard Père & Fils has built up a vast domaine in Côte-d’Or. Today the estate boasts 130 hectares of vines, of which 12 are classed Grand Cru and 74 classed as Premier Cru.

Pairings and Tips:
The great part of a wine in the middle of the road is that it can bend to so many dishes. Duck, pork, roast chicken, game, anything with mushrooms or truffles would really set it up well! But it doesn’t have to be a complicated affair in the kitchen. Grill up some turkey or veggie burgers with a little char on them, toss some skewers alongside, and you’ve got a simply made feast. 15 minutes of chill on this red will keep it singing long after opening. Ready to drink now, or hold for 4-7 years to enhance those savoury qualities.

CLICK HERE TO FIND THIS WINE AT THE LCBO.

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