2023 Labouré-Roi Bourgogne Rouge, Burgundy, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

The 2023 Burgundy growing season produced generous yields and wines with attractive fruit, freshness, and accessibility. Many red Burgundies from the vintage show juicy fruit, moderate structure, and excellent balance, making them appealing both young and for short- to medium-term cellaring. The wine is fermented in temperature-controlled tanks to preserve fruit purity. Aging is relatively brief and takes place in a combination of stainless steel and oak, providing subtle complexity without overwhelming the fruit character. The emphasis is on maintaining the freshness and varietal expression of Pinot Noir.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

The history of Labouré-Roi is closely linked to that of Nuits-Saint-Georges, in the heart of the iconic Côte de Nuits. Founded in 1832, Labouré-Roi is today one of the most respected names in Burgundy. These historical roots in the heart of one of the most fragmented and exacting wine-producing regions in the world have shaped a philosophy focused on excellence and discovery. For nearly 200 years, Labouré-Roi has enabled wine lovers from all over the world to access the prestigious appellations of these legendary vineyards. In-depth knowledge of the soil characteristics, orientation and potential of each plot, accompanied by unique expertise in barrel selection and the vinification and aging of Burgundy’s great wines have resulted in Labouré-Roi becoming recognised and appreciated throughout the world.

For Célénie Desarbres, our oenologist and winemaker, the work begins in the vineyard. An expert in the relationship between winemaking and grape growing, she embodies the link between two inseparable aspects of our profession: work in the vineyard and work in the winery. Her expertise in both fields enables a close collaboration. Knowledge of each climat, research and observation of the plots, discussions with growers, advice and support for each of the winery's partners, and deciding the optimal harvest date together, are the basis of the special relationship that the the domaine has maintained for decades with Burgundy’s winegrowers. Barrel selection is also a key element. Célénie Desarbres chooses the barrels, the degree of toasting and the wood from several coopers and decides on the proportion of barrels that is renewed. Barrels are custom made. Their action is part of the subtle exchange between the wine and the wood that contributes certain flavors and aromas to the wine, up to bottling.