Chandon Blanc De Noir 750ml

Frost and mildew destroyed 80-90% of the de Nicolay’s holdings in Pernand and Savigny, so the surviving grapes were fermented together to produce six barrels of Gelée Royale from 11 hectares. Notes of creamy cherry, dark spice and mossy soil introduce a supple, full-bodied wine. Its rich tannins are beautifully cloaked in ripe fruit, which is cut by cool acids and abundant savoury nuance.

After the year's frosts, fully 11 hectares of vineyards produced a mere seven barrels of wine, which de Nicolay bottled as the 2016 Bourgogne "Gelée Royale." Given the higher appellations that inform its blend, it's unsurprising that this cuvée punches far above the level expected for a generic wine, unfurling in the glass with notes of raspberries, plums, grilled meat, dark chocolate and spices. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, velvety and concentrated with considerable substance and concentration. Given its structure and depth, it will reward a decade's bottle age. Rating: 92+