Chandon de Briailles Savigny-Lès-Beaune 1er Cru Les Lavieres 2020
The Wine
90-93 Pts Burghound - Sweet Spot-Outstanding ‘Cooler and more restrained aromas include those of spicy dark berries and an array of elegant floral nuances. The rich but racy medium-bodied flavors possess excellent volume as well as evident minerality on the slightly more complex and persistent finish where the only nit is a hint of warmth.
The Details
Variety - Pinot Noir
Country - France
Region - Burgundy
Sub Region - Savigny-lès-Beaune
Extra - Cork
Year - 2020
Volume - 750ml
About the Wine Maker 
Established in 1834, Chandon des Briailles boasts a commendable history and continues as a genuine family domaine to this day. The estate has been inherited by successive generations of the de Nicolay family, with the current custodians being the sibling duo, Count François de Nicolay and Claude.
Despite its notable heritage, it remains somewhat of an enigma in the wine industry. Those privy to its reputation recognize that Chandon des Briailles consistently produces wines of outstanding quality that are particularly beneficial to age.
The vineyards sprawl across the villages of Savigny-lès-Beaune, Pernand, and Aloxe, home to the esteemed Grand Crus of Corton Clos du Roi, Bressandes, and Maréchaudes.
Organic farming has been the norm here since the late '80s, initiated by Nadine, the mother of François and Claude, who sought to abolish chemical treatments in the vineyards. Over the subsequent four decades, the domaine has fully embraced biodynamics, earning certification in 2012.
Typically, biodynamics is associated with vineyard cultivation, yet it also entails a distinct certification for the winery. Presently, the domaine's lands are tilled solely by horse, and efforts are underway to substitute sulphur treatments with skim milk to combat powdery mildew.
In 2013, Christian Knott, (Vaucluse Cellars Alumni), took over as Head Winemaker, leading to a significant enhancement in quality. Under his watch, the wines become purer, more delightful, and accessible earlier, while still possessing their aging potential. The 2020 vintage marks the last under his stewardship before he departed to focus on his own Domaine Dandelion. These Burgundies are of such high caliber that they would be a proud addition to any esteemed Burgundy cellar.
