2023 Raquillet - Mercurey Vasees (750ml)

Records show the Raquillet family has made wine in Mercurey since the 1600s, and François Raquillet, who took over the estate in 1990, represents the eleventh generation. He immediately shifted the domaine toward lower yields and meticulous vineyard work, with every grape hand-harvested and carefully sorted. That discipline has made Raquillet one of the most respected names in the Côte Chalonnaise, producing wines that rival far pricier Côte de Beaune reds.

Les Vasées lies in the natural amphitheater of Mercurey, on south-facing clay-limestone soil with a heavy scattering of stones that gives the Pinot Noir extra structure and depth. Yields are kept below forty hectoliters per hectare, nearly Grand Cru territory for the Côte Chalonnaise. Fermentation relies on native yeasts, and the wine ages in barrel with a carefully measured share of new oak, letting the site's character lead.

The wine shows black cherry, licorice and cocoa, with a broad range of spice, especially anise, on the nose. The palate is succulent and suave, with fine volume and a seductive texture, closing on a firm, youthfully austere finish. Serve it with roast venison, braised short ribs, or a hard aged cheese.