Gabin et Félix Richoux Irancy ‘Les Cailles’ 2017
The Wine
Certified Biodynamic
90-92 Points, William Kelly, The Wine Advocate 'Evokes a very classic mélange of sweet red and black fruit, smoky grilled meat and licorice that's framed by a subtle touch of wood. On the palate, however, it has rounded out considerably, picking up flesh and texture. From a south-facing site that's gently sloping—and consequently boasts somewhat deeper soils—this is a very successful effort.'
'...Thierry Richoux-and now his sons Félix and Gabin-prove that Irancy's wines can be a revelation. Pioneers of organic farming (and now certified as such), they realize the appellation's potential, limiting their yields, harvesting by hand and maturing their wines for two years-the first year in foudre and ank, the second in smaller oak barrels. Irancy's amphitheater of hills naturally produce rather powerful, virile wines, despite the village's northerly latitude, and that tendency was exacerbated by the warm, dry conditions of 2018, 2019 and 2020; of the three, it's 2019 that retains the most energy and aromatic lift despite its sunny style, but all three are strong successes in their atypically rich register.' William Kelley, The Wine Advocate
The Details
Variety - Pinot Noir
Country - France
Region - Burgundy
Sub Region -Irancy
Extra - Cork
Year - 2017
Volume - 750ml
About the Wine Maker 
For generations, the Richoux family has been passionately cultivating Pinot Noir in the picturesque Irancy, a village just a few kilometres from Chablis. The soil conditions are similar to those of its famous neighbour, which contributes to the refinement and expression of the wines. Irancy is situated in an idyllic valley, surrounded by steep vineyards and cherry orchards, and has just over 300 inhabitants.
In 2012, brothers Gabin and Félix Richoux joined the familydomaine. After studying at the Viticole de Beaune, they took over the management in 2016. Today, they manage 20 hectares of vineyards and are among the few producers in the appellation who work entirely biodynamically. They have had this certification since 2013.
The grapes are harvested by hand in 40 kilo crates and undergo a rigorous selection before the stems are removed. The brothers, like their father Thierry before them, believe in a long élevage. The wines mature in tanks for the first year and then spend a full year in oak. This process ensures a harmonious balance, preserving the purity of the unique terroir. The result? Wines with a mineral and earthy character, followed by fruity and spicy notes. Fresh in their youth, but with great aging potential.
