Ben Leroux, the next generation winemaker
The Cote de Beaune is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbor, the Cote de Nuits, when talking about red Burgundy but the Beaune may be a beautiful source of good-valued Burgundies. Benjamin Leroux, a young and ambitious grower, has become a rising star in the region, even if he is a first-generation producer – that is: he doesn’t come from a long line of family winemakers, nor inherited a plot of land. He simply wanted to make wine by learning from the masters. He learned from Pascal Marchand when he managed Domaine de Comte Armand and decided to release his own label beginning the 2007 vintage. His ambition is to create wines that will rival those made by Domaines – wineries which own their own vineyards.
With his ambition, coupled with his attention to quality winemaking practices, including choosing vines from organic and biodynamic vineyards, his wines have been given praise by many wine authorities.
Image from: www.insideburgundy.com
RECOMMENDATIONS:
WHITE
MEURSAULT 2018
Arguably one of the best-valued premium Chardonnays in the world, wines from Meursault remind wine drinkers of peaches, cream, butter and toast when young, and evolves into honey, hazelnuts, and baking spices as it ages.
If you would prefer an even more pronounced wine, take the Meursault La Piece sous Le Bois 1er Cru.
REDS
VOLNAY 2018
In the 18th century, Volnay was a simple Burgundy wine made in the same style as Beaujolais Nouveau. Nowadays, Volnay can produce juicy, and fresh wines with lots of plum and cherry flavors. They tend to drink best 3 to 5 years from the vintage.
The Volnay Close de la Cavs Ducs 1er Cru is an even bolder wine with more concentrated flavors.
POMMARD 2018
Known for producing wines with riper flavors of Pinot Noir, sometimes reminding drinkers of sweet cherries and baked plums, Pommard evolves into having hints of chocolate, plums, and meat as it ages. The tannins are structured yet supple as well giving the wine a good balance.
The Pommard Rugiens 1er Cru is considered as one of the best sources of the best vines from Pommard.
BLAGNY 2018
Nestled between Puligny and Meursault, Blagny produces good-valued Burgundy that provides both the red fruit flavors of Pinot Noir with the savory elements that the grape is known for. A backbone of crisp acidity gives the wine a good backbone for food pairing
The Blagny La Piece Sous Le Bois 2018 gives more distinct flavors of cranberries and toast with a hint of game.