2015 Domaine Thenard Givry 1er Cru Clos Saint Pierre

Burgundy, France

My fall staff pick was a German Pinot Noir and it’s not too shocking that my winter staff pick is another one! I love this grape and how well traveled and versatile it is. Swedish berries, Rhubarb, spice and savory notes come together to create something beautiful!
Givry was once the epicenter of Chalonnaise wine production and its fame stretches back to the 16th century when it was King Henri IV's preferred source of wine (the bottle is still actually labeled with “PRÉFÉRÉ DU ROI HENRI IV”. The King traveled through Givry frequently but rumour has it that it wasn’t for this amazing wine, it was actually for a mistress. The Givry Premier Cru vineyards are regarded as having the finest terroir of the area and hence produces the most highly regarded of the appellation's wines.
The Thenard family has owned land in Givry since 1760 but was not exported to North America under the Domaine label until 2005. This wine is made in a traditional method. Maceration takes place for about 2 weeks in wooden vats. The wine is then aged partly in 5% new oak and partly in foudre (large wooden vat) for 24 months.
This wine would be unreal with duck (game birds in general), mushroom risotto, salmon or some goat cheese!

$42.95