2012 Domaine Ragot Givry Vieilles Vignes

Notes

One of the most difficult combinations to find in young, inexpensive red Burgundy is that ever-longing, haunting essence of forest floor and baking spices, along with just the right amount of ripe raspberry fruit. Burgundy is cold, which means that often times the fruit just doesn't ripen the way it does in other pinot noir-growing parts of the world. Tart cranberry or tannic blackberry will often await your lips upon first sip; a sign that the wine needs a few years in the cellar to soften up before drinking. But what are we to drink while we wait?! This wine, the Ragot Vielles Vigne from the underappreciated Givry region; a juicy and boisterous red with serious structure and depth. Black cherry fruit, bits of compote, and a perfect balance of soft mouthfeel and acidity. This is real, deal red Burgundy for anyone who wants the classic core profile of French pinot noir without having to wait. There's nothing better in the store for drinking right now at any price. (David Driscoll, K&L Buyer)