Domaine Besancenot
2011 Beaune Premier Cru Cent Vignes
A wonderful example of a classic Burgundy Pinot Noir. Combine with other Beaune premiers crus from Domaine Besancenot for an instant introduction to the subtleties of French terroirs and vintages.
An evolving nose offers moderately intense aromas of sweet spice (nutmeg, cloves), and cedar with subtle/fleeting truffle notes. Concentrated cherry aromas become increasingly evident with a little time, along with red licorice, black pepper, and floral aromas enveloped by woodsy and oak notes. Tart, high-toned red fruit flavors on the palate. Intense fruit, good acidity and grippy, fine-grained tannins. The long, fruity finish has an interesting confected cherry note. Youthful. A wine to try again in 2016–2017.
Food pairing: Heavy fish (salmon) in tomato sauce
Deep plummy scents dominate the nose but strawberries and a distant floral perfume hover in the background and there is an interesting interplay between the brighter and darker scents. Notable for its poise with a good balance of veiled fruit, prominent acidity, and slightly aggressive tannins suggesting a long development. Still in its youth, but promising. Likely to reward patience.
Food pairing: Pigeon, game hen, duck, other game or fowl, lamb
The Creator of This Wine
Domaine Besancenot
Successful women winemakers? Just look at Thérèse Besancenot! Heiress to six generations of winemakers, Thérèse, along with brother Dominique, took over her father’s domaine in 2006, and has since been written up by the BBC, Vintages magazine, and the Globe and Mail. “Wine is a passion,” says Thérèse. “It comes from the heart.”
| Producer: | Domaine Besancenot |
| Region: | Burgundy |
| Year: | 2011 |
| Maturity: | 2016-2020 |
| Alcohol: | 13% |
| Bottle size: | 750ml |
| Color: | Red |
| Varietal: | Pinot Noir |
| Flavors: | Cherry, Red fruit, Musk |
| Body: | Medium |
| Soul: | Youthful |
