We suppose it’s a good thing when in the opening paragraph of this fall’s article on “Insider’s Burgundy,” the Wine Advocate’s William Kelley mentions Gautier Desvignes by name as a face of a “new generation of quality-conscious producers” in the Côte Chalonnaise. We’re thrilled to see Gautier receive the recognition he deserves, even if it means his wines are a bit harder to come by.
Tasting the 2020s Kelley found “elegant, sumptuous reds,” and writes that Gautier’s “2020 portfolio is a strong follow-up to his lovely set of 2019s.” After them back in April we wholeheartedly agreed. Gautier’s entire lineup of 2020s has arrived in stock, and today we’re suggesting the best value of the bunch.
From a dry, sundrenched vintage, the 2020s from Desvignes drink like a cross between Gamay and Nuits-St-Georges. The 2020 Givry rouge punches well above its weight, with outstanding richness and intensity. If the Côte Chalonnaise calls to mind red-fruited, lightweight reds with bright tannins, it’s time to reconsider.
The Desvignes 2020 Givry packs an extraordinary amount of flavor into a $32 bottle – it’s among the best entry-level Burgundies in our cellar, and we’d put it up against much bigger names from the Côte de Nuits. The nose bursts with cassis and black fruits, with hints of earth and spices. The mouth is rich and layered with tremendous concentration. Kelley awarded 90 points, finding a “layered and concentrated palate framed by powdery tannins and succulent acids.”
The days of $20 Burgundian pinot may be behind us, but if this is what entry-level red Burgundy tastes like these days, sign us up.
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Desvignes Givry 2020
bottle price: $32
FREE EAST COAST SHIPPING ON ANY 12 BOTTLES