2008 Bourgogne / Maison Bertrand Ambroise

For just under $20, this Pinot Noir is a great starting point from which to begin a journey into the world of Burgundy wines. It’s easy to get lost in Burgundy with more than 100,000 acres of vines, 15,000 growers, and 100 or more négociant (wine brokerage) firms that purchase grapes from small producers throughout the region for blending. While négociants account for more than 70% of Burgundy’s total wine production, this 2008 Bourgogne boasts “Maison” (meaning house) along side the producer’s name, indicating that Bertrand Ambroise is a large enough producer to both grow all their own grapes, and make their own wine. Holding the classification of Appellation Bourgogne Contrôlée indicates that the producer is allowed to source any one (or all) of their own vineyards for the production of this wine, lending flexibility in their selection to insure an adequate harvest of top quality grapes for the final blend.

I found this Burgundy to be somewhat rustic in style, medium bodied, well balanced, and moderately acidic with light but dry and earthy tannins. I also experienced ripe and dusty fruit on the nose, mild yet concentrated cranberry on the palate, and a hint of tobacco on the finish. This Burgundy should pair nicely with mildly spiced dishes of grilled or roasted chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, or pork; and the addition of a wine reduction or mushroom sauce would make it even better! I could also see this wine pairing nicely with a beef stew, medium grilled fish in a rich or hearty sauce, and a number of firm and savory cheeses such as Manchego, Romano, Swiss, and Gouda.