Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot Chambolle-Musigny Derrière la Grange 2017

Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Derrière la Grange 2017 is a high-end red from the prestigious Côte de Nuits, Burgundy, France. Made entirely from Pinot Noir, it comes from the emblematic Premier Cru climat "Derrière la Grange", known for its limestone soil mixed with fine clays. Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot is widely recognised for its purist philosophy, with traditional winemaking using grappes entières (whole bunches) and long ageing in French oak barrels.

The Confurons — Yves, Jean-Pierre and patriarch Jacky — are the current generations of a very old Burgundy family, with mentions of the family even at the court of Louis XIV. The Domaine is run by Yves and Jean-Pierre, though its soul is Yves, who splits his time with Domaine de Courcel in Pommard. The family is very close and father Jacky always helps when he can. Several qualities make this producer special. First, unlike most Burgundy producers, Yves picks much later, waiting for the Pinot Noir to be fully ripe, and when it comes in he vinifies with 100% stems, seeking freshness and finesse. Second, a purist philosophy, with no interventions that harm the vineyard or the grapes, combined with almost obsessive rigour. The results are great wines that may at first seem "too" luscious, but become masterful after half a dozen years. As a curiosity, and an honour no other family has, there's a variety of Pinot Noir in Burgundy called Pinot Confuron.

Ruby red. The nose is rich and broad, with notes of blackberry, earth and undergrowth. On the palate it's intense, elegant, well defined and well structured, with a savoury touch on the finish.