Domaine Petitot’s Savigny-lès-Beaune “Cuvée Les Pimentiers Vieille Vigne” 2021 is a classic expression of Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune. Crafted from old-vine Pinot Noir (“Vieille Vigne”), this red wine typifies the elegance and complexity for which Savigny-lès-Beaune is renowned. The 2021 vintage, noted for its freshness and vibrancy, benefits from the careful selection of particularly mature vines, which often yield grapes with deeper concentration and nuanced aromatics. Ageing typically occurs in French oak barrels, bringing subtle spicy and toasted notes that frame the lively red fruit profile of raspberry, cherry, and redcurrant, accompanied by hints of earth, undergrowth, and gentle floral nuances.
The Côte de Beaune, part of the revered Burgundy region, is celebrated for its limestone-rich soils interspersed with clay and marl, providing the ideal conditions for expressive, terroir-driven Pinot Noir. The climate here is continental, with cool winters and warm summers, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and retain their natural acidity—a hallmark of the area’s balanced wines. Savigny-lès-Beaune itself has a long viticultural history dating back to the Roman era, with vineyards often nestled on rolling slopes, benefiting from excellent drainage and generous sun exposure, which contribute to the wine's complexity and finesse.
This Pinot Noir’s supple yet energetic structure makes it a versatile companion at the table. It pairs beautifully with classic Burgundian dishes such as coq au vin or oeufs en meurette. Roast duck, herb-crusted lamb, or even dishes featuring earthy mushrooms and lentils will highlight the wine’s forest and floral undertones. For a regional twist, consider serving it with local cheeses such as Epoisses or Cîteaux.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for about 30 minutes to open up its bouquet. Serve it slightly cool, ideally around 15-16°C, to preserve its freshness and accentuate the delicate interplay of fruit and earth. The 2021 vintage can be enjoyed now for its youthful vibrancy, but it should also evolve gracefully over the next five to seven years.
