Denis Carre Bourgogne Hautes Cotes de Beaune Blanc 1998

Situated in Meloisey in the Haut Cotes de Beaune over the hill from Pommard, this family-run domaine was created in 1975 by Denis and Bernadette Carré and has over the years grown to 13 hectares spread across the Cote de Beaune. Denis’ children, Gaetane & Martial, have been involved in the vineyards since a young age and in 2008 both joined the family business full-time. The domaine receives high accolades by top wine journals in France such as Guide Hachette and is noted for consistent high quality and attention to detail. Starting off, the Hautes Cotes de Beaune Rouge is a superb value, especially in the great 2014 vintage. While we really liked the 2013 for its crisp edge, the 2014 has a bit more bass, a bit more treble and ultimately a bit more volume than its predecessor. Ripe cranberry and red currant are wonderfully framed by fine, well-integrated tannins and lively acids. This is the first time we’ve imported the Saint Romain, a small appellation down the road perhaps best known as being the headquarters for the François Freres cooperage. We liked it because of its inner core of red fruit, its hint of smoke, supple texture and round tannins. The Savigny les Beaune comes from gravelly, stony soil with an average vine age of well over 60 years. Ruby red with garnet reflections, the deep blue fruit mingles with savory spices on a delicately fruity, round and generous palate supported by a subtle tannin. Overall these are Burgundies focused on fruit while still retaining their village signatures, and certainly enjoyable in their youth for their vibrant personalities.