2022 Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge 'Les Morichots', Domaine Billard, Burgundy, France

Although more associated with white production, there are some wonderful reds produced from the vineyards surrounding Chassagne-Montrachet. Here is a wonderful example from the very traditional Domaine Billard. It's a silky smooth Pinot Noir that's light fragrant and fresh. There is a hint of oak in the background lending a touch of spice, but the emphasis is on generous pinot noir fruit. There is the potential for up to six years development with this wine.

Domaine Billard has approximately 12.5 hectares of vineyards in different appellations throughout the Cotes de Beaune. Their largest holdings are in the Hautes Cotes de Beaune with other small plots located in Saint Romain, Saint Aubin 1er Cru, Auxey Duresses and Beaune. The domaine passed from father to son recently and Jérôme Billard has brought a new philosophy to his family domaine. Farming is done with respect for nature and follows the principles of organic farming. Yields are kept low through the use of cover crops and severe pruning and all the vines are harvested by hand. Only indigenous yeasts are used for the fermentation. Jérôme’s father sold his wine to the local cooperative but Jérôme is now estate bottling his entire production.