Over the hills and far away to the Haut Cotes... And a kaleidoscopic tasting with Laurent Delaunay at the family’s beautiful Chateau de Charmont. 28 wines tried – from Bourgogne Aligoté (absolutely outstanding – who needs Chardonnay?!?) right through to Echezeaux and Clos Vougeot, with many highlights across appellations and crus.

The choice of parcels, and pragmatic approach – where every cuvée is treated individually without a set formula for quantity of new oak, or amount of whole bunches used etc, allows each wine to offer a true and deeply satisfying expression of the terroirs. Whilst the strength in Nuits Saint Georges is especially noticeable, there are some absolute gems throughout – and the consistent balance of succulence and focus, sweetness and salinity, authenticity and sophistication shows that there are great things ahead for Maison Delaunay. Watch out for Laurent picking some of his top under the radar wines for us and elsewhere explaining why we should embrace his passion for Nuits Saint Georges…

"From a well-drained, nicely exposed limestone-spiked site on the same level of the slope as Chassagne, there are plenty of stones here for mineral drive but the aspect means the fruit ripens well and is always harvested early. 10% whole bunches used and 20% new oak. “The most affordable red Burgundy premier cru” is how Laurent convincingly sells this wine. The aromas are up front, a combination of red and black plums and cherry tobacco and a hint of polish and pencil lead. Palate is very juicy, with bright summer fool fruits and the sponge to match, a hint of star anise, plus crunchy peppery fresh tannins. What’s not to like?"
Tom Harrow, Head Wine Guru