Wine: Bouchard Aine & Fils Grand Conseiller Pinot Noir Reserve

Country: France

Region: Languedoc-Roussillon

Designation: Vin de France

Brand/Producer: Bouchard Aine & Fils

Grape Varietal: Pinot Noir

ABV: 12.5%

Type: Red

Code: 1809

Tasting Notes

This is a deep cherry red wine with ruby highlights. Inviting aromas of Morello cherries and berry compote have faint hints of vanilla and liquorice. On the palate the wine is rich and fruity with more signature Pinot Noir cherry flavours and hints of backing spices, The finish is smooth with well balanced silky tannins.

Producer

Since 1750, Bouchard Ainé & Fils is devoted to the excellence and renown of the region's noble grapes. The 18th-century Hôtel du Conseiller du Roy in Beaune houses the cellars where is perpetuated, generation after generation, the tradition of quality, elegance and prestige in selecting and making fine Burgundy wines.

Winemaking

The best “terroirs” are selected to create this wine, sourcing Pinot Noir grapes from the south of France and adding extra value using grapes from the Pinot Noir native soil. In the South, the Pinot Noir finds a perfect climate and well-drained soils that make its fruity character outstanding. 

Once in the winery, the grapes are fully destemmed to keep only the fruits and vatted in stainless steel tanks for the fermentation process. During the process, all the components of thegrapes (pigments, tannins, aromas) are gently extracted by battonage, a process of punching down and pumping juice over the cap. The wine is aged during 6 months mainly in stainless steel vats but a proportion is casked into oak barrels (30% new oak) to soften the tannins, bringing more roundness and aromatic complexity to the wine. It results in a fine marriage of fruit and oaky aromas

Fun Fact

Paul Bouchard (1814-1898) represents the 5th generation of the family; he was a charismatic character and statesman who devoted his life to serve his region, his city and the Bouchard wines. His commitment led him to found a viticultural school (that is still open today!) to perpetuate the tradition of passing on wine-growing techniques and skills to future generations.

The Pinot Noir Grand Conseiller Reserve was named after him, to celebrate his beliefs and actions as General Counsellor (Grand Conseiller).

Food pairing

Will be perfect with all meat dishes, poultry and cheese. As a suggestion, braised beef or

more exotic lamb tajine.

Awards & Accolades

Wine Enthusiast

91 points and rated “Best Buy”