2021 Domaine Faiveley Givry "Champ Lalot", Burgundy, France

ABOUT THE WINE

The “Champ Lalot” vineyard is a well-placed parcel within Givry, a commune known for producing some of the most refined Pinot Noirs in the Côte Chalonnaise. With east-facing slopes and clay-limestone soils, the site produces wines of clarity, freshness, and gentle structure. In 2021—a cooler, more classic vintage—Faiveley harvested slightly earlier to capture natural acidity and aromatic precision, resulting in a wine of finesse and moderate alcohol.

Grapes were hand-harvested and fully destemmed before undergoing fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Extraction was gentle, aimed at preserving purity over power. The wine was aged in French oak barrels, about 15–20% new, for 12 months, allowing the terroir to express itself without overt oak influence.

On the palate, this cuvée shows red berry brightness, floral lift, and a savory undertone of earth and spice. It’s ideal with dishes like roast chicken with thyme, pork tenderloin, or lentil stew with root vegetables. While immediately enjoyable, it can cellar gracefully for 5–7 years.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Founded in 1825 and based in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley is one of Burgundy’s most historic and respected family-run estates. Now helmed by Erwan Faiveley, the domaine has undergone a significant stylistic evolution since the early 2010s, focusing on a more refined and terroir-transparent expression across its vast holdings. With over 120 hectares of vineyards, including prestigious plots in both the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, Faiveley is particularly known for its meticulous vineyard management and selective harvesting practices.

In the Clos des Corton Faiveley monopole, the domaine showcases its commitment to sustainable viticulture and precision winemaking. The vineyard is managed using lutte raisonnée principles, minimizing chemical use and promoting biodiversity. In the cellar, Erwan and technical director Jérôme Flous aim for purity and structure, crafting wines that reflect site character with impressive age-worthiness. This Grand Cru is a testament to Faiveley’s ability to bridge tradition with modern elegance.