This is the third bottle we’ve opened of the six bottles Michael Bowden generously sent to help us learn about Burgundy before we visit the region this summer. The first two were from Vosne Romanee, and drinking them, taking notes, and then reading Michael’s notes helped me to get a sense of place. I set this bottle out earlier and opened it, but in the midst of kitchen chaos, I poured a glass without looking at the label. I expected more of that exotic Vosne spice, but what I found in the glass threw me for a loop. It was clear from the first sniff that this wasn’t from Vosne. It was nothing like the Burgs we drank last week. Hell, it was nothing like any Pinot I’ve ever smelled.
They dont make Pinot in Burgundy…they make Burgundy in Burgundy.
-Michael Bowden.
1999 Champy Beaune Champs-Pimont
Early on, showed prominent notes of lychee, orange peel, black raspberry, and leather. An hour in, it’s evolved 180° to reveal more dark cherry, earth, toasty oak, and warm spice. Medium to full bodied (Pinot-full, not Petite Sirah-full), with good grip on the middle and a long, almost floral finish. Very enjoyable now, but with room to evolve.
Another big “thank you” to Michael, our very patient virtual tour guide, for his wine, his notes, and his knowledge.