Santenay, Petit Aigle AOP 2020

Wine Description for Santenay Petit Aigle AOP 2020 by Boris Champy

Colour & Appearance

A rather intense, clear garnet red.

Nose

Requires a little air initially – do give this Burgundy time in the decanter. It reveals a fine balance of cool stone, dried herbs and a deep, ripe fruit of black cherries, sour cherries and plums. Subtle oak influence and notes of dark chocolate round out the bouquet elegantly.

Palate

On the palate, the wine shows itself wonderfully silky and juicy. The dark fruit clothes the mouth charmingly. The acidity is ripe, round and finely branched, lending the wine an invigorating liveliness. The tannin has largely melted away and provides plenty of charm and a smooth roundness. Not excessively complex, but an exceptionally drinkable, harmonious and engaging Pinot Noir.

Terroir & Origin

The grapes come from Santenay, the southernmost appellation of the Côte d’Or in Burgundy. Boris Champy, regarded as a biodynamic pioneer, sources grapes for his Négoce line “Petit Aigle” from partner estates working organically and certified by Ecocert.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Pinot Noir. The grapes are destemmed to approximately 70% (30% whole bunches), followed by spontaneous fermentation and gentle extraction. The wine matures for 10 to 12 months in tonneaux and is bottled unfiltered.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Excellent with hearty meat dishes such as bavette with roasted potatoes and grilled green asparagus or smoked ribs with grilled oranges. For vegetarian options, it shines with roasted potatoes with aioli and pine nut butter.

Special Features

The Petit Aigle line showcases Champy’s talent for making Burgundian elegance and freshness accessible in an approachable, organically produced wine for discerning everyday drinking.