Wine: Albert Bichot Macon Pierreclos
Country: France
Region: Burgundy
Designation: AOC Maconnais
Brand/Producer: Albert Bichot
Grape Varietal: Gamay
ABV: 13.5%
Type: Red
Code: 1767
 
Tasting Notes
The nose is redolent of cherry, plum and mild spices. Soft and straightforward on the palate with intensely fruity flavours against a tangy background. The finish is refreshing with notes of red fruit.
 
Producer
Since 1350, the Bichot family has called Burgundy home. But, it was in 1831 that Bernard Bichot founded a merchant house bearing his name in Monthélie, in Beaune. At the end of the 19th century, his grandson Albert Bichot took the family business into a new direction and created the winery, Maison Albert Bichot as we know it. The family heritage has been perpetuated from father to son since then. The family crest, consisting of a deer and antlers, has been synonymous with the winery since its inception.

Since 1996, Albéric Bichot has represented the 6th generation managing the winery. The winery’s mission is to utilize the best fruit possible to create the best wine and best expression of terroir. In the constant pursuit of accomplishing this mission, Albert Bichot now owns 6 Domaines set at the heart of 5 great viticultural regions that make up Burgundy: Chablis, Cote de Nuits, Cote de Beaune, Cote Chalonnaise, and Beaujolais. Each estate consists of vineyards cultivated with sustainable practices, as well as facilities, cellars and dedicated winemaking teams devoted to wines of that Domaine and region.

Winemaking
The village of Pierreclos is located in the southernmost part of the Mâconnais region. Because it borders the Beaujolais region, the climate is ideal for the signature grape of Beaujolais: Gamay. Albert Bichot sources their grapes from Côte Maconnais & Côte Chalonnais.
No oak is used for this wine, thus the pure fruit flavours are at the heart of the wine.

Fun Fact
Gamay was originally banished from Burgundy, not one but twice. In 1395, Phillippe the Bold, Duke of Burgundy exiled the “disloyal grape” for usurping his favoured Pinot Noir. In 1455, the new Duke Phillippe the Good, was similarly offended by Gamay and it was banished again. Over the centuries the prodigal grape was welcomed back and is now safe and sound in the Macconnais, adjacent to Beaujolais.

Food pairing
Light hearted Macon is a friend to all for food pairing. Try it lightly chilled, especially with light dishes, mild cheese and summer salads.