Viniou Reviews
Jean-Jacques Girard’s Savigny-lès-Beaune Premier Cru “Les Lavières” 2023 is a quintessential expression of Burgundy’s finesse and nuance. Crafted from 100% Pinot Noir, this cuvée originates from the renowned Premier Cru climate Les Lavières, which is particularly prized for its shallow, stony soils rich in limestone, contributing a distinct minerality and elegance. 2023, a vintage marked by both warmth and balanced rainfall, allowed for optimal phenolic maturity, giving the wine vibrant fruit concentration alongside fine tannins. The vinification practices at Domaine Jean-Jacques Girard favour gentle extraction and ageing in French oak barrels, which imbues the wine with subtle notes of spice and a touch of toast without overwhelming the purity of the fruit.
Savigny-lès-Beaune, located north of Beaune on the slopes of the Côte de Beaune, enjoys a temperate continental climate, ideally suited to Pinot Noir. The vineyards are nestled on well-drained, gravelly soils over limestone bedrock, which impart freshness and structural clarity to the wines. This area has a long history of viticulture, with records going back to the Middle Ages, and is celebrated for producing red wines of both delicacy and depth, emphasising red fruit, floral notes, and earthy undertones.
To best accompany this Premier Cru, consider pairings that echo both its refinement and substance. Traditional Burgundian dishes such as coq au vin or escargots à la bourguignonne will beautifully highlight the wine’s savouriness and delicate acidity. Roast duck or guinea fowl, finished with wild mushrooms, would further enhance the earthy nuances, while a simple rabbit terrine, served with crusty bread, makes for a deliciously rustic match. For cheeses, opt for mild, creamy options such as Brie de Meaux or Chaource.
For an optimal tasting experience, serve this Savigny-lès-Beaune Premier Cru at 16-17°C. Decanting for 30-45 minutes will allow the wine’s aromatic complexity to unfold, revealing all the charm and subtlety this remarkable terroir has to offer.
