91pt Wine Spectator Red Burgundy for Under $30 per bottle

Louis Latour Marsannay 2018

Rated 91 Points by the Wine Spectator

From the excellent 2018 vintage in Burgundy comes this fantastic value Marsannay Rouge, made from 100% Pinot Noir. 

Marsannay is the village which marks the northern gateway to the Côte d'Or on leaving Dijon, the capital of Burgundy and home to the Ducs de Bourgogne. This village marks the beginning of the Route des Grands Crus which follows the N6 highway through the Côte d'Or. Wines from Marsannay are generally lively and robust; characteristics that come from the rich iron soil. Marsannay received its Appellation Contrôlée as recently as 1987 in recognition of the consistently high quality of its wine.

Grapes for this wine are hand-picked from vines that are on average 30 years old. It was fermented in traditional open vats before aging for 10 to 12 months in stainless steel, for a very clean, fresh final product. In fact, this wine has such ripe fruit and freshness that it is best served slightly below room temperature. Try for more of a cellar temperature of 56 to 62 degrees.

From the Winery - "Our Marsannay is sturdy and robust due to the rich iron-based soil. The wine has an intense bouquet of red fruit and a silky palate with a distinct gamey character and great tannic appeal. Serve with roasted duck, coq au vin, lamb stew and mature cheeses."

Rated 91 Points by the Wine Spectator - "Broad and luscious, this red features black cherry, boysenberry, mineral and spice aromas and flavors. It's concentrated and supple, yet well-built, with a spine of tannins and acidity emerging on the lingering aftertaste. Drink now through 2028."

This wine is still young and restrained, but like many 2018's can be opened, decanted and enjoyed after some aeration today. It will continue rewarding your patience for at least the better part of this decade. Its $29.99 price point makes it quite the value in Burgundy these days as well. 

Enjoy!

Tracy Maxon

tracy@varmax.com