Marsannay is the village which marks the northern gateway to the Cote d'Or on leaving Dijon, the capital of Burgundy and home to the Ducs de Bourgogne. This village marks the beginning of the Route des Grands Crus which follows the N6 highway through the Cote d'Or. The wines are renowned for being sturdy and robust due to the rich iron-based soil, they have an intense bouquet of red fruit and a mouth-filling, silky palate with a distinct gamey character and great tannic appeal. Marsannay received its Appellation Controlee as recently as 1987 in recognition of the consistently high quality of its wine. Soil: Bajocin limestone. Vinification: Traditional open vat fermentation followed by 18 months ageing in oak cask. Marsannay 1997 tasted 12/07/99: From the lower slopes just outside Gevry Chambertin comes this exciting and fantastic value wine. A deep rich ruby colour explodes on the nose to reveal layers of ripe concentrated flavours. The palate is equally compelling as sweet Pinot fruit guides like velvet over your palate. The finish is soft, warm and lengthy. (12 x 75 cl)
With a striking garnet robe this wine brings forth freshly picked red and dark berry aromas including blackberry, blackcurrant, raspberry, showing the beautiful nature of pinot noir. The palate also echoes more spicy flavors of liquorice. A wine that has a good equilibrium between acidity and fruitiness. (12 x 75 cl)