Domaine de la Vougeraie Terres de Famille Bourgogne Rouge 2021

Domaine de la Vougeraie was created in 1999, when Jean-Charles Boisset, one of the biggest Negociants in Burgundy, decided to combine his various vineyard holdings under a single domaine banner - Vougeraie. This 'super-group' domaine now comprises approximately 35 hectares in 29 different appellations, including five red and one white Grand Crus. They also hold two monopole vineyards in Vougeot - Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot, and Le Prieuré.

All of the domaine's vineyards use biodynamic techniques, and are certified organic, making them the largest organic producer across the Cote d'Or. With the vineyard holdings in place, and managed expertly by Bernard Zito, it came to choosing a winemaker. Pascal Marchand from Comte Armand was the perfect choice, taking the reins from the first vintage in 1999, through to 2006.The winemaking then fell to Pierre Vincent who developed a more delicate approach, stepping back from the power of Marchand's wines, and favouring a lighter, more deft touch. After more than a decade at the helm, it was time for Pierre to step aside - he has subsequently become the head winemaker for Domaine Leflaive in Puligny-Montrachet. Today, the winemaking is headed up by Sylvie Poillot and her team. Together, they expertly oversee and manage the production of a whopping 37 cuvees!

All of the fruit is sorted and destemmed, before being given a 4-5 day cold maceration. Fermentation is carried out in large wooden vats, before transferring to oak barrels for maturation. The level of new oak is dependant on the vintage and the plot, but usually sits somewhere around 30-50%. One of the best value cuvees produced is their Bourgogne Rouge 'Terres de Famille' which is a blend of younger vines from the Gevrey-Chambertin vineyard 'Evocelles,' young vines from Vougeot, as well as fruit from the 1er Cru Beaune vineyard 'Montée Rouge.' A standout Bourgogne that absolutely over delivers.