Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” 2013 – Domaine Rapet Père & Fils

The 2013 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” from Domaine Rapet Père & Fils is a testament to the resilience and artistry of Burgundian winemaking, especially in a year that presented numerous challenges to vintners. This wine, emerging from the esteemed “Aux Fournaux” vineyard, is a profound expression of the site’s unique terroir and the meticulous care with which the Rapet family approaches their craft.

The “Aux Fournaux” vineyard, nestled within the Savigny-les-Beaune appellation, is revered for its premier cru status, a designation that speaks to the exceptional quality of its wines. The terroir here is a complex blend of limestone and clay, offering the perfect substrate for Pinot Noir vines. The climatic conditions of 2013, marked by a cool spring and a summer that alternated between warmth and rainfall, tested the adaptability and skill of the domaine. Yet, through careful vineyard management, including precise pruning and vigilant monitoring of vine health, Domaine Rapet Père & Fils succeeded in nurturing their grapes to ripeness.

Vinification of the 2013 “Aux Fournaux” adhered to the domaine’s philosophy of minimal intervention, aiming to mirror the purest expression of the vineyard’s character. The grapes were hand-harvested, a testament to the domaine’s commitment to quality over quantity, and then underwent a meticulous selection process to ensure that only the best fruit was used. Fermentation took place in open vats, allowing for natural yeast fermentation, which contributes to the wine’s complexity and terroir-driven profile. Aging in French oak barrels, partially new, imbued the wine with subtle tannins and a hint of spice, complementing the natural fruit flavors without overpowering them.

The result is a wine that beautifully encapsulates the essence of its origin. The bouquet is a harmonious blend of ripe red fruits—cherries and raspberries—with an undercurrent of earthiness and a whisper of oak-induced vanilla and spice. On the palate, the 2013 “Aux Fournaux” reveals its layered complexity, offering a seamless integration of fruit, acid, and tannin. The texture is silky, with a medium body that carries the flavors towards a long and elegantly structured finish.

This wine stands as a reflection of the 2013 vintage’s challenges, showcasing the potential for excellence in the face of adversity. It highlights the domaine’s dedication to producing wines that not only speak of their place of origin but also of the year’s specific climatic conditions. The 2013 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” is, therefore, not just a bottle of wine but a narrative of resilience, tradition, and meticulous craftsmanship.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the wine presents an opportunity to explore the subtleties of Burgundy’s terroir and the adaptability of Pinot Noir to varying vintages. It is a wine that, while accessible in its youth, promises further development and depth with age. Its balance and elegance make it an ideal companion to a range of dishes, from simple roasted meats to more complex preparations featuring mushrooms and herbs, highlighting the wine’s versatility and the enduring appeal of Burgundy’s wines.

In conclusion, the Domaine Rapet Père & Fils’ 2013 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” is a vibrant testament to the beauty that can emerge from challenge. It stands as a tribute to the dedication of the Rapet family and their unwavering commitment to expressing the unique character of their land through wines of distinction and depth. This particular vintage not only captures the essence of its terroir but also tells the story of a year marked by perseverance and triumph over adversity, making it a valuable addition to any collection and a joy to those who seek to understand the heart and soul of Burgundy.