ADVERTISING: Advertorial — France Wine Camp: A journey through Maison Albert Bichot's Domaine du Pavillon
Laura Olson
As our France Wine Camp adventure continues, we find ourselves at the prestigious Maison Albert Bichot, specifically their esteemed Domaine du Pavillon. Following our enlightening experience at Baron-Fuenté, this visit promised to immerse us further into the rich tapestry of French winemaking, this time in the heart of Burgundy.
Upon arrival at Domaine du Pavillon, we were immediately struck by the tranquil atmosphere. The vineyards stretched before us, bathed in a quiet anticipation of the impending harvest. This serene setting belied the challenges faced by vintners in the Beaune region during the 2024 growing season.
Our host shared sobering news: the 2024 vintage is expected to yield significantly less than usual due to excessive rainfall. This revelation underscored the delicate balance winemakers must strike with nature, reminding us of the artistry and resilience required in viticulture.
Despite the challenging season ahead, the tasting that followed was nothing short of exceptional. We had the privilege of sampling seven of Maison Albert Bichot's estate wines, each a testament to the winery's commitment to quality and terroir expression.
1. Bourgogne Côte d'Or Chardonnay Le Pavillon Domaine du Pavillon 2022
This wine set the stage beautifully, showcasing the purity and elegance typical of Côte d'Or Chardonnays. With notes of citrus and white flowers, it offered a crisp, refreshing start to our tasting journey.
2. Meursault Domaine du Pavillon 2022
The Meursault was a highlight, embodying the richness and complexity for which the appellation is renowned. Buttery notes mingled with ripe orchard fruits, underpinned by a subtle minerality that spoke volumes of its terroir.
3. Bourgogne Côte d'Or Pinot Noir Le Pavillon Domain du Pavillon 2022
Transitioning to reds, this Pinot Noir charmed with its vibrant red fruit character and silky tannins. It served as an excellent introduction to the estate's red wine craftsmanship.
4. Pommard Clos des Ursulines, Monopole, Domaine du Pavillon
A true gem, this Pommard from the Monopole vineyard Clos des Ursulines displayed remarkable depth and structure. Dark cherry notes intertwined with earthy undertones, promising excellent aging potential.
5. Aloxe-Corton 1er Cru Clos des Marechaudes, Monopole, Domaine du Pavillon 2022
Another monopole offering, this Aloxe-Corton Premier Cru impressed with its balance of power and finesse. The wine's complex bouquet of red and black fruits was complemented by subtle spice notes, a testament to its premier cru status.
6. Chateau Gris Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru Monopole 2020
The 2020 vintage of this Nuits-Saint-Georges stood out for its intensity and elegance. Rich dark fruit flavors were beautifully integrated with notes of violet and a hint of oak, showcasing the depth of flavor achievable in this renowned appellation.
7. Chablis Premier Cru Les Lys Domaine Long-Depaquit 2022
Our tasting concluded with a return to white wine, this time from the northernmost part of Burgundy. This Chablis Premier Cru exemplified the region's signature minerality and precision, with crisp apple and citrus notes leading to a long, focused finish.
As we walked through the estate vineyards following our tasting, the importance of terroir in Burgundian winemaking became abundantly clear. Each plot, each row of vines, told a story of soil, climate, and human dedication. The quiet preparation for harvest we witnessed was a reminder of the cyclical nature of winemaking and the anticipation that builds with each vintage.
Our visit to Maison Albert Bichot's Domaine du Pavillon was more than just a tasting; it was an education in the nuances of Burgundy's diverse appellations. From the crisp whites of Chablis to the robust reds of Pommard, each wine we sampled was a window into its specific terroir and the skillful hands that crafted it.
The challenges faced in the 2024 growing season, as shared by our hosts, served as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in winemaking. Yet, tasting through the exceptional lineup of wines, many from recent vintages, instilled confidence in the resilience and adaptability of both the vines and the vignerons who tend them.
As we concluded our visit, we left with a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind each bottle and the indomitable spirit of Burgundy's winemakers. The wines of Maison Albert Bichot, particularly those from Domaine du Pavillon, stand as eloquent ambassadors of their terroir, inviting wine enthusiasts on a sensory journey through one of France's most revered wine regions.
Our France Wine Camp continues to enlighten and inspire, one exceptional domaine at a time. The lessons learned and wines savored at Maison Albert Bichot will undoubtedly influence our appreciation of Burgundian wines for years to come and we are excited to feature some of our favorites in the shop this month!
• • •
Laura Olson is co-owner of Base Camp Wine & Co. (formerly The Dinner Party) along with her partner, Joe Petersen. You can also follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/#!/dinnerpartyshop or visit www.thedinnerpartyshop.com.