Domaine Philippe le Hardi, Mercurey Vieilles Vignes

Country: France Region: Mercurey, Burgundy 

Varietal: Pinot Noir Vintage: 2024

Category: Red Wine  Style: Dry

Producer: Domaine du Château Philippe le Hardi

Description:
Domaine du Château Philippe le Hardi (formerly Château de Santenay) was once the stately home of Philip the Bold, the first Duke of Burgundy. The duke was famous for banning the cultivation of Gamay in the Côte d’Or, in his edict of 1395 which stated that only Pinot Noir could be used to produce red wines from these fabled slopes.

In 2010, it was taken over by French bank Crédit Agricole after an extended period of neglect. The current owners have invested heavily in the estate, building a modern cuverie in 2014 and appointing a new, dynamic team led by Chef de Cave François des Moutis. François is focused on expressing the quality of the domaine’s single vineyards through sensitive winemaking. By embracing minimal new oak and gentler extraction, today, the wines of Domaine du Château Philippe le Hardi offer supple, characterful expressions of their well-respected sites.

Tasting Notes:
On the nose, it offers classic red berry aromas—ripe cherries, wild strawberries, and cranberries—layered with subtle notes of violets, earthy forest floor, and a touch of spice. The palate is elegant yet structured, with a silky texture, fresh acidity, and fine-grained tannins that give the wine finesse and balance. Delicate hints of dried herbs, black tea, and a whisper of oak add complexity without overpowering the purity of the fruit.

Food Pairings: Roast chicken, duck, or soft cheeses