2024 Domaine A. et P. de Villaine Bourgogne Rouge "La Fortune", Burgundy, France

ABOUT THE WINE

“La Fortune” is Domaine de Villaine’s distinctive Bourgogne Rouge, produced from Pinot Noir grown near Bouzeron in the Côte Chalonnaise. The wine takes its name from its vineyard site, where the domaine’s careful farming and restrained cellar work emphasize Pinot Noir’s delicacy, perfume, and ability to translate subtle differences in terroir.

The vineyards are farmed organically, with close attention to soil health, biodiversity, and naturally balanced yields. Harvesting is done by hand, followed by careful sorting, and vinification is approached with minimal intervention to preserve the purity and freshness of the fruit. Élevage is similarly restrained, favoring balance and transparency over overt extraction or oak character.

The cool, challenging 2024 Burgundy vintage particularly rewards this kind of precise viticulture, yielding a “La Fortune” centered on freshness and aromatic lift. Red cherry, cranberry, raspberry, and wild strawberry mingle with floral tones, gentle spice, and an earthy, stony undertone. Fine-grained tannins and bright acidity give the wine an agile structure and a clean, savory finish.

Its combination of freshness and delicate structure makes this an exceptionally versatile food wine. Pair it with roast chicken, duck, pork tenderloin, grilled salmon, mushroom dishes, charcuterie, or earthy lentil preparations. A slight chill will further highlight its perfume and bright fruit.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Domaine de Villaine was founded in Bouzeron in the early 1970s by Aubert and Pamela de Villaine. The domaine became instrumental in restoring attention to the Côte Chalonnaise and, in particular, establishing Bouzeron as a distinctive Burgundian terroir. Today, the estate is directed by Pierre de Benoist, Aubert de Villaine’s nephew, who continues its emphasis on thoughtful farming and transparent, site-driven wines.

The domaine has long been committed to organic viticulture, complemented by biodynamic practices and a broader philosophy of working with rather than against the natural rhythms of its vineyards. Limestone-rich soils, hillside exposures, hand harvesting, careful sorting, and low-intervention cellar work form the foundation of its approach.

Although Domaine de Villaine is especially celebrated for its benchmark Aligoté Doré from Bouzeron, its Pinot Noir offers another compelling perspective on the Côte Chalonnaise. “La Fortune” embodies the domaine’s philosophy particularly well: rather than pursuing power or concentration, it favors purity, finesse, freshness, and an articulate expression of Burgundy’s landscape.