René Bouvier’s Fixin AOC “Cuvée Crais de Chêne” 2021 is a captivating interpretation of the Pinot Noir grape, emblematic of the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy. Sourced from old vines rooted in the lieu-dit “Crais de Chêne”, this cuvée comes from soils abundant in limestone and marl, factors that nourish the wine with notable minerality and finesse. 2021 was a challenging but classic Burgundian year, marked by cooler temperatures and late spring frosts which kept yields low but helped retain lively acidity and purity of fruit. The vinification here emphasises elegance: traditional fermentation in open vats, gentle extraction, and maturation in French oak barrels—often with a low proportion of new oak—help to showcase the vineyard’s character rather than mask it.
Fixin, nestled at the northern end of the Côte de Nuits, is often overlooked compared to its prestigious neighbours, yet the area boasts a long viticultural heritage. The climate is continental, marked by cold winters and warm summers, which encourage Pinot Noir to ripen slowly and develop nuanced aromatics. The soils are classic for the region: a mix of calcareous clay and gravel (“craie” in French evoking the chalk present in Crais de Chêne), contributing both structure and an underlying stony freshness. The wines of Fixin tend to be structured, robust examples of Pinot Noir, combining red fruit vibrancy with earthy, sometimes sauvage notes.
For food pairings, this wine’s structure and savoury complexity make it a wonderful companion to dishes featuring earthy or umami flavours. Traditional Burgundian fare such as coq au vin, duck breast with cherries, or even a fine beef bourguignon would be elevated alongside this Fixin. Its vibrant acidity and elegant tannins also make it an excellent match for mushroom risotto or roast guinea fowl. To complement its regional authenticity, serve with local cheeses like Epoisses or Cîteaux.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Fixin at 15-16°C. Decanting for 30 minutes to an hour can help the wine open up fully and express its aromatic palette, especially while it is still young. This cuvée promises both early approachability and potential for further cellaring, offering a fine glimpse into the more discreet but rewarding corners of Burgundy.
