Domaine Paul Pillot Bourgogne Rouge Pinot Noir 2017

From the importer: "this is by some distance the finest Bourgogne Rouge we have shipped from this producer and, as a matter of fact, in general."
This is drawn from two Estate-owned sites on the southern reaches of Chassagne, nearby Chagny and Remigny. The soils here are the classic clay and limestone of the Côte and the vine age is 35 years on average. The grapes are handpicked and mostly destemmed before being naturally fermented and aged for 12 months on lees in a mix of steel vats and used large barrels. For structure and perfume, Pillot employed 20% whole bunches this year and the result is pretty as a peach. Expect a vibrant yet fleshy Pinot with loads of dark and red cherry fruit, classy resinous, spicy oak and inky depths. The finish is perfumed and long with a twist of ferrous tannins. A lovely, lovely wine. Buy what you can. Red Burgundies of this quality and at this price range are indeed a rarity!