HOSPICES DE BEAUNE
BURGUNDY, FRANCE 2021
Why Buy: Our Buyer, the indefatigable Pierre-Yves, a wine industry insider with more than three decades of experience and a palate of exquisite sensitivity, was on the ground in Beaune, at the celebrated Hospices de Beaune auction; he personally selected these brilliantly-realized, old-vine Burgundies from the many dozens on offer.
What They're Saying: Jasper Morris, an author and the critic behind Inside Burgundy, was lavish in his praise of both bottles, calling the Cuvée Guigone de Salins "exceptional" and "beautiful," and singling out "the feeling of mineral tension on the nose" and the "superbly persistent" finish. Of the Les Epenots, Cuvée Dom Goblet 2021, he wrote: "On the palate, the fruit clearly obtained ripeness, with fine-grained tannins, medium density (Epenots should never be a blockbuster), and an attractive long finish with ... roses at the height of their powers."
The Story: Once a year, on the third Sunday of November, wine collectors from around the globe gather in the heart of Beaune to participate in the world-renowned wine auction that has been held since 1859. This historic
occasion gives collectors the chance to acquire exceptional Burgundy in every price range, with the proceeds going towards medical treatments and ensuring patients of the Hospices the best possible care. Over the years, the Hospices' vineyard holdings have grown through vineyard donations and reflect some of the greatest terroir in Burgundy; 85% of the vineyards consist of Premier and Grand Cru sites, with wines ranging from single vineyards to blends of individual parcels, named after various benefactors who have generously donated to the Hospices over the years. Year in and year out, wines that bear the Bichot stamp are among the most sought-after. Add to that the pedigree of these expressions — sourced from Pinot Noir vines over 50 years old — and it is little wonder that collectors are in hot pursuit of bottles.
Our Tasting Notes:
* The Cuvée Guigone de Salins is a wine of great beauty and finesse, one that unfolds almost seamlessly into its lengthy and sustained finish. We were struck, too, in our tastings, with its energy and dynamism, and the way its minerality extends throughout, adding depth and dimension.
* The Epenots terroir is adored by many for the boldness and vibrancy of the wines that emerge from it, and this single vineyard wine is no exception; it also delivers great aromatics, consistent energy, and classical structure.
What to Pair Them With: Mushroom tart; rack of lamb with thyme and lavender; charcuterie and cheese boards; roasted salmon with shallots and butter.
ABV: Cuvée Guigone de Salins 2021, 13%; Les Epenots, Cuvée Dom Goblet 2021, 13%.
Fun Fact: The Cuvée Dom Goblet is named, according to Morris, "after the last cellarer of the Abbey, Dom Goblet, who worked until the French Revolution."
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so you can be confident that your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Don't hesitate to secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2023 (Dec. 21st - Mar. 20th, 2024). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NY, or TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Wednesday, October 25th, 2023.
