Ropiteau Chassagne-Montrachet V.2020
From core d’Or, Burgundy, France, a Sophisticated & Layered Chardonnay.
A beautifully crafted white Burgundy showing poise, complexity, and finesse. The nose is refined, vanilla, lemon zest, buttered toast, stone fruits, and a whisper of hazelnut. Even five years in, it shines with bright acidity and a stony minerality.
On the palate, it’s dry and layered, subtle oak, citrus, apricot, and honey glide into a long, elegant finish. Medium+ acidity keeps it lifted and precise. Definitely cellar-worthy, but already drinking beautifully.
Pair it with rich poultry, lobster, creamy sauces, or aged cheeses. Pure class in the glass. 🍋🍑🧈 — 3 months ago
Good wine. Aged well. Prosciutto, cherry, hibiscus, green peppercorn. — 7 months ago
A classical, and more regional-driven Burgundian 100% Pinot Noir. Enticing sharp red cherry color, red fruity aromas with rounded acidity, so typical from Burgundy’s soil of clay-limestone based. Since it combines grapes sourcing from village to village with different terroirs selected to enhance an elegant expression of Pinot Noir, this one still keeps the Ropiteau’s house style. It is definitely an excellent region representation at an excellent price point. Cheers! — 6 months ago
Fresh, clean. — 7 months ago
Very interesting Cabernet. For me licorice up front. Not a long finish nor overly tannic but nice and smooth. — 2 years ago
Freddy R. Troya
Domaine Derey Frères – Marsannay “Les Vignes Marie” 2021 🇫🇷
Marsannay AOC, Côte de Nuits – Burgundy, France
Overview
100% Pinot Noir from Marsannay, the only Côte de Nuits village allowed to produce wines in all three colors (red, white, and rosé). “Les Vignes Marie” is a standout parcel that shows the classic finesse of Burgundy Pinot while keeping Marsannay’s hallmark freshness and approachability.
Aromas & Flavors
Bright red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry lead the nose, with hints of rose petal, subtle spice, and earthy forest floor. A touch of mineral undertone brings lift and precision.
Mouthfeel
Elegant and medium-bodied with silky tannins, lively acidity, and a refined structure. Balanced and supple, finishing with freshness that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Winemaking Notes
The Derey family has been established in Marsannay since the mid-17th century, and their work focuses on organic farming and gentle cellar practices. The 2021 vintage, cooler and classic in style, emphasizes delicacy over power.
Food Pairing
Perfect with roast chicken, duck breast, mushroom risotto, or a charcuterie board. Its finesse makes it versatile across light meats and earthy vegetarian dishes.
Verdict
A graceful Burgundy Pinot that captures Marsannay’s balance between Côte de Nuits structure and charming approachability. For me, this sits as one of my most favorite wines in the Côte de Nuits — at a very affordable price point, it punches well above its weight and shows how Burgundy can still deliver tremendous value.
📚 Educational Sidebar – Why Marsannay Matters
Marsannay, at the northern gateway of the Côte de Nuits, is often overshadowed by its neighbors like Gevrey-Chambertin. But its wines deliver exceptional value, showing Pinot Noir with purity, finesse, and terroir character — a smart entry point into Burgundy without the Grand Cru price tag. Cheers! — 24 days ago