We love (love love) Pinot Noir, especially great Pinot Noir from Burgundy, its homeland. One of the major issues with Burgundy is availability, another is pricing; some Burgundy can get really expensive and hard to find! It is not, however, always prohibitively expensive or elusive, and we pride ourselves on always having very reasonably priced Pinot from Burgundy. Today we present you with four options, from south to north, that represent some of the best values in Pinot Noir from anywhere around the globe.
Les Freres Perroud Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2018
Perroud is a Beaujolais producer, but they have a small plot of Pinot Noir in the Maconnais. Labeling a wine as 'Macon Rouge' is not allowed, so if you make a red in the Maconnais, you just call it Bourgogne. This little beauty is fresh and lithe, full of berry notes and subtle woodsy nuances. It is an absolute steal at $20. It won't be around too long though, very little is imported to Massachusetts.
Michel Sarrazin Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2018
From a hillside plot of vines over 50 years old, at an altitude of 1,020 feet, next to the lieu dit of 'Champ Garambey', in Givry, this wine is a terrific value. Notes of fresh dark berries, spice and flowers are delicious and classic.
Francoise et Denis Clair Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes-de-Beaune 2017
One of our staples at Craft and Cru, if you haven't tried it yet, what are you waiting for? Fresh and tart, with delectable tangy berry notes accented by hints of pine, earth and mushrooms.
Henri Jouan Coteaux Bourguignons Pinot Noir Vieilles Vignes 2017
We bought every bottle of this wine that came to Massachusetts, though one should note that there were only 60 available. One should expect many Coteaux Bourguignons to contain Gamay, or even be composed of 100% Gamay, but this wine is entirely made of Pinot Noir. Coming from a vineyard over 40 years old, downslope from Gevrey and Morey, this wine exhibits juicy berry notes, earthy herbal tones and significant length considering its humble appellation. It performs beautifully with 24 hours of air.