Paul's Pick: Mercurey "Vielles Vignes"

For a wine lover there is really nothing that compares to sticking your nose deep into a glass of Pinot Noir from the Burgundy Region of France. To oversimplify things, red Burgundy can only be made from 100% Pinot Noir. For many, red Burgundy is the Holy Grail of Pinot Noir. No two Burgundies are alike, and even the same wine tasted on different occasions can offer a completely different experience. The curse, (don’t worry, your first born will not turn into a toad,) is once you have experienced the wonders of a delicious Burgundy, you are always on the lookout for another wine that will give you the same delight. Generally, quality red Burgundies have pretty steep prices attached (i.e. Comte Georges de Vogue Bonnes Mares $438.00).

I found this 2006 Mercurey “Vielles Vignes” from Jean-Pierre Charton for $22.00, and while it is not a Vogue Bonnes Mares, it offers an authentic Burgundy experience at an affordable price. From 30-55 year old vines planted on limestone and clay soils around the village of Mercurey, this wine has bright cherry and strawberry fruit, with some earthy and mineral notes. Once it has been in the glass for a while, it takes on richer more complex aromas and flavors. This wine is by no means a juice bomb, but instead, a delicate, and restrained red that is a classic example of Pinot Noir from the region, and a perfect wine to accompany a great meal.

To order, please call Paul at (415) 346-9870.