Notes from David Bowler Wine:

""The Chandon de Briailles wines are truly gems within the Côte d'Or. They are not quite like any other Burgundy. When destemming, extraction, and new oak were the fashion, they were bottling all of their wines with 100% whole clusters and no new oak. Even today, with a max of 20% new oak, it's very low for grand cru Burgundy. Nothing quite stands still here and the only constant is the unending quest to learn more and experiment to achieve the best expression possible of Savigny-les-Beaune, Pernand-Vergelesses, and Corton, irrespective of fashion.

Many argue that Île des Vergelesses should be classified as a Grand Cru. It’s true that in the best years, with it’s eastern exposure and mid-slope location, it behaves as a Grand Cru. Chandon de Briailles has a healthy three hectares planted to pinot noir, located in an area with a nice slope, and a good mix of clay and limestone. It’s safe to say that Île along with Bressandes are the flagship wines of the domaine. Fermented with 100% whole clusters and aged in barrel for 18 months."

Beautiful deep purple color, with a nose of berry skin and crushed rock. This is a deep and mineral wine, with an austere power that keeps the meditative drinker returning for a another sip. -Andy