The 2012 Marsannay Les Favieres has a broody blackberry and raspberry-scented bouquet with touches of incense and violet emerging with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins, rounded black cherries and blueberry and a nicely poised, grippy finish that suggests it will age with style. Very fine. Drink 2015-2025.
Since being introduced to this domaine’s wines last year courtesy of their commendable 2009s, I sought to taste their latest releases that are overseen by Charles’s son Cyril. He has been at the helm since 2000 and had the advantage of abundant old vine material at his disposal. There is plenty afoot at this address with a new state-of-the-art winery coming online in 2014 and again, there is plenty to admire in their latest additions, in particular a fabulous little Marsannay that shows just what this appellation can do in the right hands. This domaine might not own any premier or grand crus – but that does not appear to prevent them from producing quality Burgundy.
Importer: Martine’s Wines. Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-040 and through Goedhuis & Co in the UK.