In This Newsletter:
Marsannay Sale
Vinopolis Champagne Featurette: Dehu
Marsannay Sale
Vinopolis Champagne Featurette: Dehu
From the Heights of Burgundy Come the Deepest Values
Stock Up & Save On
Marsannay
Stock Up & Save On
Marsannay
At the very north of the Burgundian region of the Côte de Nuits is the village of Marsannay. Once overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, such as Nuits-St-Georges or Gevrey-Chambertin, interest in Marsannay has grown in recent years. Underrated for historical reasons, the increasing temperatures due to climate change and also increasing prices on Burgundies has led to renewed interested. As the temperatures warm, these wines are achieving more weight and impact, making Marsannay great source for value without sacrificing complexity.
Though Pinot Noir is by far the most common variety, Chardonnay is also produced. Historically, Gamay and Aligoté were the most common varieties and rosé the dominate style. Because of this,
no Grand Cru or Premier Cru vineyards were designated, though Clos du Roy and Les Longeroies are under consideration for Premier Cru status. (Today, Marsannay Rosé is the only village-level designate for the style in Burgundy.)
One of our favorite producers in the area is Sylvain Pataille. Working with nearly 40 acres of vines that are all certified organic, these are impressive, soulful wines that offer plenty of value. These are quick movers at the shop, so make your selections early.
“Consulting enologist Sylvain Pataille owns this 15-hectare Marsannay domaine, where he produces brilliant wines that number among the Côte d’Or’s finest values. Whole-cluster vinification, long macerations, low sulfur and protracted élevage are the rudiments of the approach.” -William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Though Pinot Noir is by far the most common variety, Chardonnay is also produced. Historically, Gamay and Aligoté were the most common varieties and rosé the dominate style. Because of this,
no Grand Cru or Premier Cru vineyards were designated, though Clos du Roy and Les Longeroies are under consideration for Premier Cru status. (Today, Marsannay Rosé is the only village-level designate for the style in Burgundy.)One of our favorite producers in the area is Sylvain Pataille. Working with nearly 40 acres of vines that are all certified organic, these are impressive, soulful wines that offer plenty of value. These are quick movers at the shop, so make your selections early.
“Consulting enologist Sylvain Pataille owns this 15-hectare Marsannay domaine, where he produces brilliant wines that number among the Côte d’Or’s finest values. Whole-cluster vinification, long macerations, low sulfur and protracted élevage are the rudiments of the approach.” -William Kelley, Wine Advocate
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Marsannay
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Marsannay
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
Sale ends Sunday, March 23rd at 9 am Pacific.
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Marsannay
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
Sale ends Sunday, March 23rd at 9 am Pacific.
We offer fourteen in-stock Marsannay options on sale now, including:
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Blanc 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $59, that’s $56.05 at 5% off and $53.10 at 10% off, 4 bottles in stock now
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Blanc 2022 1.5L Displayed Price: $125, that’s $118.75 at 5% off and $112.50 at 10% off, 2 magnums in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous “The 2022 Marsannay Blanc is a blend of several parcels. It was fairly reduced on the nose when I encountered it. The palate is more promising much more finely balanced with perfectly judged acidity, tangible mineralité, and a delicacy on the finish that I appreciate. Give it 12 months once in bottle.”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Bourgogne Rouge Le Chapitre 2018 750ml Displayed Price: $69, that’s $65.55 at 5% off and $62.10 at 10% off, 4 bottles in stock now
VinopolNote: This is the same site as the 2019 Marsannay Le Chapitre, but was not elevated by the INAO to the village level until the 2019 vintage.
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $54, that’s $51.30 at 5% off and $48.60 at 10% off, 6 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous “The 2022 Marsannay Rouge is a mixture of Domaine and négoce wines (from Pataille’s father). Initially, it is a little timid, but it opens nicely with aeration, bringing flinty black fruit with the 80% whole bunches imparting a light pepperiness. The palate is medium-bodied with granular tannins, fresh and vibrant, finishing with a touch of black olive.”
Domaine Charlopin Tissier Marsannay Rouge 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $49.50, that’s $47.03 at 5% off and $44.55 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Domaine Charlopin Tissier Marsannay La Montagne 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $56.50, that’s $53.68 at 5% off and $50.85 at 10% off, 10 bottles in stock now
Domaine Charlopin Tissier Marsannay Les Longeroies 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $54.50, that’s $51.78 at 5% off and $49.05 at 10% off, 36+ bottles in stock now
Importer Note “Domaine Charlopin Tissier was created in 2013 with only 1.08 hectares of vines by husband and wife Yann Charlopin and Justine Tissier. The young couple now hold just over 4 hectares of vines in Bourgogne, Côte de Nuits-Villages, Marsannay, Gevrey Chambertin, Morey-Saint-Denis, Vosne Romanée, and Pernand-Vergelesses. Inspired by the elegant wines of his mentor Jean-Marie Fourrier, the wines of Domaine Charlopin Tissier are wines of elegance and finesse. After studying wine in Beaune and spending time making wine in Tasmania, Sancerre and Chablis, Yann Charlopin returned home to work with his father Philippe Charlopin. When the opportunity arose to acquire some of Justine’s family’s vines in Marsannay and with a vision of the wines he would like to create, Yann did not pass up the opportunity to venture out on his own. With the encouragement of Jean-Marie Fourrier, Yann and Justine purchased Domaine David Clarke in Morey-Saint-Denis.
“In the vineyard, all farming is organic and done by hand. Once harvested, all grapes are fully de-stemmed, undergo a cold maceration and are fermented with natural yeasts. Yann does little racking as he prefers a long, slow élevage on the fine lees.”
In the September 2021 Wine Advocate, William Kelley wrote “The results are rich, gourmand and characterful, patinated by their élevage, and I found plenty of interest in this tasting.”
Domaine Collotte Marsannay Le Clos de Jeu 2015 750ml Displayed Price: $44.50, that’s $42.28 at 5% off and $40.05 at 10% off, 4 bottles in stock now
Wine Spectator 93 points “Linear and intense, featuring cherry, raspberry and mineral flavors defined by the taut structure. Balanced and long, with a spicy aftertaste. Best from 2021 through 2030. 100 cases imported.”
Jerome Galeyrand Marsannay Clos du Roy 2021 750ml Displayed Price: $135, that’s $128.25 at 5% off and $121.50 at 10% off, 3 bottles in stock now
Neal Martin-Vinous 92 points “The 2021 Marsannay Clos du Roy marries the natural tension of the year with good depth. Dark red cherry/plum fruit, spice, leather, smoke and blood orange all meld together. Give this year or two to soften. It’s a very promising wine from Galeyrand.”
Becky Wasserman Importer Note “Size: 0.37 ha (0.93 ac). Vine Age: Planted in 1980. Terroir: Mid-slope, east/southeast-facing, well-draining, marl and iron-rich clay soil with white oolite. Viticulture: Organic (Ecocert, 2019), biodynamic methods. Vinification: No added SO2 during vinification. 10-30% whole cluster, ambient yeast fermentation with punchdowns and a few pump-overs. Aged for 12-14 months in barrels (20-30% new). No fining, light filtration if necessary. 30-45 ppm total SO2 at bottling.”
Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Clos du Roy 2022 750ml Displayed Price: $89, that’s $84.55 at 5% off and $80.10 at 10% off, 7 bottles in stock nowNeal Martin-Vinous 92-94 points “The 2022 Marsannay Clos du Roy has a very well-defined bouquet with black cherries and wild strawberries, hints of inkwell and brine joining the chorus line with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins, taut and fresh, with a very elegant, poised finish. About as good a Marsannay as you will find in this vintage.”
As the eighth generation Champagne winemaker in his family, Benoît Déhu first cut his teeth at Bollinger before striking out on his own in 2010. Working off of his family holdings in the Marne, with barrels made from the forest bordering the property, these are meticulously crafted grower Champagnes at their finest.
Déhu has been blessed with the characteristic terroir of the Marne that contributes to his wine’s incredible aromatics and structure, namely the green clay overlaying pure limestone chalk. Eschewing new oak, dosage, and intervention in general, these are some of the purest expressions of terroir you’ll ever find.
In Stock Now:
Benoît Déhu ‘Initiation’ Brut Nature NV (2020) 750ml $79 special, 19 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92 points “[Review for 2019-base] The NV Initiation, a blend of 77% Pinot Meunier and 23% Pinot Noir from two parcels in Fossoy, is a fine entry-level offering. Dried flowers, mint, spice and ginger all grace this attractive, mid-weight Champagne. There is a bit of reduction, but it works well in this style. I especially admire the finish here. Bottled with no dosage.”
Benoît Déhu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ NV (2015) 750ml $119 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2015) Extra Brut Cuvée La Rue des Noyers speaks with real authority, and yet the 2015 is one of the more delicate versions of this cuvée so far. Time in the glass allows the wine to blossom nicely. Dried pear, smoke, herbs and dried flowers fill out the wine’s creamy frame effortlessly. Once again, the Rue des Noyers is one of the most distinctive wines in Champagne. Dosage is 1 grams per liter. Disgorged: July 2017.”
Benoît Déhu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ NV (2016) 1.5L $269 special, 6 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2016) Cuvée La Rue des Noyers, 100% Meunier, is bright, effusive and full of energy. In 2016, the Rue des Noyers is not as overt as it can be, but instead makes its case with energy and verve more than sheer power. I find it especially distinctive and elegant. Exotic dried flowers, ginger, apricot and spice linger. There is so much to like, and also so much to look forward to as the 2016 develops in the cellar. No dosage. Disgorged: May, 2021. (Drink between 2022-2030).”
Benoît Déhu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ NV (2019) 750ml $119 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2019) Cuvée La Rue des Noyers is a gorgeous, beautifully understated wine. Citrus confit, mint, white pepper and slate are beautifully lifted in this striking, precise Champagne. As always, the Rue des Noyers is an especially savory Meunier. This is not the most obvious or overt Meunier out there, but it is among the most fascinating because of its dynamic energy and overall complexity. Disgorged: March 21, 2024.”
Benoît Déhu Blanc de Noirs Cuvee de L’Orme NV (2017) 750ml $149 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2017) Cuvée L’Orme is another impressive Champagne from Benoît Déhu. Aromatic and light on its feet, L’Orme shows the more delicate, nuanced side of Pinot Noir off to great effect. Kirsch, wild flowers, mint, spice and dried flowers are all nicely lifted. L’Orme is classy, understated and impossible to resist. Bright acids and veins of salinity extend the finish effortlessly. No dosage.”
Importer Note “100% Pinot Noir from a tiny parcel previously planted with elm trees (Orme). This barrel-aged, zero dosage cuvee captures the attributes of complexity, personality and pedigree that make Déhu Champagnes so alluring.”
Benoît Déhu Blanc de Noirs Cuvee de L’Orme NV (2019) 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Brut Nature Blanc de Noirs L’Orme, Dehu’s 100% Pinot Noir, is quite the extrovert in this vintage. A rush of red-toned fruit, spice, crushed flowers, mint and tangerine peel makes a strong opening statement. Bold and effusive, the 2019 is long on personality. Time in the glass brings out the wilder, gamier side of Pinot Noir to round things out. Disgorged: January 25, 2024.”
Benoît Déhu ‘Initiation’ Rosé Brut Nature NV (2020) 750ml $89 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 90 points “The NV (2020) Extra Brut Rosé Cuvée Initiation is airy, ethereal and quite gracious in feel, consisting of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Pinot Meunier from various parcels in Fossoy (including 7% Coteaux Champenois Rouge from Rue des Noyers). Dried herbs, flowers, mint, spice and cranberry are nicely delineated. Vibrant, brisk acids round things out in style, but this comes across as a bit vegetal. This wine saw ten months of aging on its lees in 228L oak barrels. Bottled with no dosage.”
Benoît Déhu ‘Initiation’ Rosé Brut Nature NV (2021) 750ml $99 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 91 points “The (2021) Extra Brut Rosé Cuvée Initiation is superb. Here, the addition of 7% still red Pinot fills out the mid-palate and gives the wine some of the textural presence that is missing in the Blanc de Blancs bottling. Chalk, cranberry, mint and white pepper build into the tense, sinewy finish. Disgorged: January 25, 2024.”
Déhu has been blessed with the characteristic terroir of the Marne that contributes to his wine’s incredible aromatics and structure, namely the green clay overlaying pure limestone chalk. Eschewing new oak, dosage, and intervention in general, these are some of the purest expressions of terroir you’ll ever find.
In Stock Now:
Benoît Déhu ‘Initiation’ Brut Nature NV (2020) 750ml $79 special, 19 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 92 points “[Review for 2019-base] The NV Initiation, a blend of 77% Pinot Meunier and 23% Pinot Noir from two parcels in Fossoy, is a fine entry-level offering. Dried flowers, mint, spice and ginger all grace this attractive, mid-weight Champagne. There is a bit of reduction, but it works well in this style. I especially admire the finish here. Bottled with no dosage.”
Benoît Déhu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ NV (2015) 750ml $119 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2015) Extra Brut Cuvée La Rue des Noyers speaks with real authority, and yet the 2015 is one of the more delicate versions of this cuvée so far. Time in the glass allows the wine to blossom nicely. Dried pear, smoke, herbs and dried flowers fill out the wine’s creamy frame effortlessly. Once again, the Rue des Noyers is one of the most distinctive wines in Champagne. Dosage is 1 grams per liter. Disgorged: July 2017.”
Benoît Déhu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ NV (2016) 1.5L $269 special, 6 magnums in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2016) Cuvée La Rue des Noyers, 100% Meunier, is bright, effusive and full of energy. In 2016, the Rue des Noyers is not as overt as it can be, but instead makes its case with energy and verve more than sheer power. I find it especially distinctive and elegant. Exotic dried flowers, ginger, apricot and spice linger. There is so much to like, and also so much to look forward to as the 2016 develops in the cellar. No dosage. Disgorged: May, 2021. (Drink between 2022-2030).”
Benoît Déhu ‘La Rue des Noyers’ NV (2019) 750ml $119 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2019) Cuvée La Rue des Noyers is a gorgeous, beautifully understated wine. Citrus confit, mint, white pepper and slate are beautifully lifted in this striking, precise Champagne. As always, the Rue des Noyers is an especially savory Meunier. This is not the most obvious or overt Meunier out there, but it is among the most fascinating because of its dynamic energy and overall complexity. Disgorged: March 21, 2024.”
Benoît Déhu Blanc de Noirs Cuvee de L’Orme NV (2017) 750ml $149 special, 3 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 94 points “The NV (2017) Cuvée L’Orme is another impressive Champagne from Benoît Déhu. Aromatic and light on its feet, L’Orme shows the more delicate, nuanced side of Pinot Noir off to great effect. Kirsch, wild flowers, mint, spice and dried flowers are all nicely lifted. L’Orme is classy, understated and impossible to resist. Bright acids and veins of salinity extend the finish effortlessly. No dosage.”
Importer Note “100% Pinot Noir from a tiny parcel previously planted with elm trees (Orme). This barrel-aged, zero dosage cuvee captures the attributes of complexity, personality and pedigree that make Déhu Champagnes so alluring.”
Benoît Déhu Blanc de Noirs Cuvee de L’Orme NV (2019) 750ml $159 special, 6 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 93 points “The 2019 Brut Nature Blanc de Noirs L’Orme, Dehu’s 100% Pinot Noir, is quite the extrovert in this vintage. A rush of red-toned fruit, spice, crushed flowers, mint and tangerine peel makes a strong opening statement. Bold and effusive, the 2019 is long on personality. Time in the glass brings out the wilder, gamier side of Pinot Noir to round things out. Disgorged: January 25, 2024.”
Benoît Déhu ‘Initiation’ Rosé Brut Nature NV (2020) 750ml $89 special, 2 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 90 points “The NV (2020) Extra Brut Rosé Cuvée Initiation is airy, ethereal and quite gracious in feel, consisting of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Pinot Meunier from various parcels in Fossoy (including 7% Coteaux Champenois Rouge from Rue des Noyers). Dried herbs, flowers, mint, spice and cranberry are nicely delineated. Vibrant, brisk acids round things out in style, but this comes across as a bit vegetal. This wine saw ten months of aging on its lees in 228L oak barrels. Bottled with no dosage.”
Benoît Déhu ‘Initiation’ Rosé Brut Nature NV (2021) 750ml $99 special, 11 bottles in stock now
Antonio Galloni-Vinous 91 points “The (2021) Extra Brut Rosé Cuvée Initiation is superb. Here, the addition of 7% still red Pinot fills out the mid-palate and gives the wine some of the textural presence that is missing in the Blanc de Blancs bottling. Chalk, cranberry, mint and white pepper build into the tense, sinewy finish. Disgorged: January 25, 2024.”
Shop all 144 of our in-stock Champagne selections here!
Don’t miss our additional sales going on now:
Italian Magnums
5% off any 3-5 in-stock Italian magnums and/or large format
10% off any 6 or more in-stock Italian magnums and/or large format
Rioja
5% off any 3-5 in-stock bottles of Rioja
10% off any 6 or more in-stock bottles of Rioja
Discount will not display online or in your cart,
We will adjust your invoice before processing your charge.
Italian Magnums sale ends Friday, March 21st at 9 am Pacific. Rioja sale ends Saturday, March 22nd at 9 am Pacific.