Irancy "Palotte" J-P et Stéphanie Colinot - 2012

Irancy is an idiosyncratic appellation in Burgundy; it lies right below Chablis but the wines made here are all red. It's also really the only place in the world where the ancient grape César is grown in any significant amount. Therefore we don't have a typical red Burgundy in our hands, yet it's a great success in the hands of Colinot. It presents aromas of black cherry, blackberry, grilled herbs, rose, black plum, licorice, and a hint of tar. On the palate you'll find red fruits, some fresh stems, and floral character. However, this is not a silky-smooth Pinot like what you might encounter in the Côte d'Or. But it definitely has the lift and gracefulness of a Burgundian red in conjunction with an earthiness and mineral backbone like what you might find in a Syrah from the Rhône. Pair with grilled salmon or a big charcuterie board.