François Raquillet Mercurey 1er Cru 'Les Veleys' Rouge 2020

François Raquillet, a highly regarded winemaker in the Côte Chalonnaise, is known for crafting elegant and expressive wines. The François Raquillet Mercurey 1er Cru 'Les Veleys' Rouge 2020 is a standout Pinot Noir from the premier cru vineyard Les Veleys, one of Mercurey's top sites. The 2020 vintage, which saw excellent growing conditions, resulted in a wine with great concentration, depth, and balance. This premier cru Pinot Noir captures the unique characteristics of the vineyard, combining ripe fruit with fine tannins and vibrant acidity, making it both approachable and age-worthy.

Appearance: Bright ruby red with a clear, brilliant hue, reflecting its youth and freshness.

Aroma: The nose is aromatic and complex, with notes of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and wild strawberries, alongside subtle earthy undertones and hints of violet. A touch of spice, such as clove and cinnamon, and a hint of oak add further depth.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and well-structured, offering flavours of red berries like cherry and raspberry, complemented by earthy notes and a touch of spice. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, providing structure without overwhelming the fruit. A lively acidity keeps the wine fresh and vibrant, with a refined, silky texture.

Finish: The finish is long and elegant, with lingering red fruit, a touch of spice, and a subtle minerality, showcasing the wine’s balance and aging potential.

Food pairing: This Mercurey 1er Cru Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted duck, grilled lamb chops, or mushroom-based dishes, where the wine’s red fruit and earthy notes enhance the savoury flavours. It also complements charcuterie and hard cheeses such as Comté or aged Gruyère, providing a perfect balance between the wine’s acidity and the richness of the food.