Bistro Freres Wines
Domaine de Font-Sane
Tradition Gigondas Grenache Blend 2023
A surprisingly gorgeous evening in DC tonight at a favorite classic bistro. This Giggie has loads of ripe fruit, but is drinking really well already. Very soft, decent acids. Some savory notes. The alcohol (15%) pooks through on the back half of the palate. But it was served a little warmer than I’d like, so that probably amplified it. — 7 months ago
@Tom Casagrande, I *think* the 2022 CdR from this producer was one of the Mystery Rhônes I purchased from a certain purveyor where you and I had a back and forth about undisclosed ABV. Glad to read here that you purchased, from wherever, a newer vintage from the same producer that also is 15% or higher!! 🤔🤷🍷
@Doug Powers.- I ordered it off the restaurant’s wine list. I suspected it would be 15% because that’s pretty much the norm these days for Gigondas. I held out a smidge of hope it would be less but was prepared to accept it anyway if was 15. I drink significantly fewer CDPs and Giggies than I used to these days because they’re just not as enjoyable in my view as they used to be.
Railsback Freres Winery
Camp Four Vinyeard Railsback Sœuer Vermentinu 2020
super cool and different white, pounded it with grilled oysters with hot sauce/tarragon butter — 4 years ago
with Brooke
Domaine Nico
Soeur et Freres Grand Mere Pinot Noir 2020
The label on these looks like they jacked the style from Sandlands 🤔
Railsback Freres Winery
Cuvee Speciale Le Carignan 2021
Light enough for fish yet heavy enough for duck — 3 years ago
Domaine Economou
Sitia V.P.Q.R.D. Red Blend 1999
I had this at Vintage Bistro in Athens. Mind blowing! — 4 years ago
Freddy R. Troya
Domaine Derey Frères – Marsannay “Les Vignes Marie” 2021 🇫🇷
Marsannay AOC, Côte de Nuits – Burgundy, France
Overview
100% Pinot Noir from Marsannay, the only Côte de Nuits village allowed to produce wines in all three colors (red, white, and rosé). “Les Vignes Marie” is a standout parcel that shows the classic finesse of Burgundy Pinot while keeping Marsannay’s hallmark freshness and approachability.
Aromas & Flavors
Bright red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry lead the nose, with hints of rose petal, subtle spice, and earthy forest floor. A touch of mineral undertone brings lift and precision.
Mouthfeel
Elegant and medium-bodied with silky tannins, lively acidity, and a refined structure. Balanced and supple, finishing with freshness that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Winemaking Notes
The Derey family has been established in Marsannay since the mid-17th century, and their work focuses on organic farming and gentle cellar practices. The 2021 vintage, cooler and classic in style, emphasizes delicacy over power.
Food Pairing
Perfect with roast chicken, duck breast, mushroom risotto, or a charcuterie board. Its finesse makes it versatile across light meats and earthy vegetarian dishes.
Verdict
A graceful Burgundy Pinot that captures Marsannay’s balance between Côte de Nuits structure and charming approachability. For me, this sits as one of my most favorite wines in the Côte de Nuits — at a very affordable price point, it punches well above its weight and shows how Burgundy can still deliver tremendous value.
📚 Educational Sidebar – Why Marsannay Matters
Marsannay, at the northern gateway of the Côte de Nuits, is often overshadowed by its neighbors like Gevrey-Chambertin. But its wines deliver exceptional value, showing Pinot Noir with purity, finesse, and terroir character — a smart entry point into Burgundy without the Grand Cru price tag. Cheers! — 7 months ago