Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” 2015 – Domaine Rapet Père & Fils

The 2015 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” by Domaine Rapet Père & Fils is a stellar representation of the exceptional vintage that has been celebrated across Burgundy for its outstanding quality and aging potential. This wine, originating from the esteemed “Aux Fournaux” vineyard, a Premier Cru classified site known for its superior terroir and optimal growing conditions, stands as a testament to the domaine’s commitment to excellence and tradition in winemaking. The 2015 vintage was particularly favorable in Burgundy, characterized by a warm, sunny growing season that resulted in grapes of exceptional ripeness and concentration, setting the stage for wines of remarkable depth and complexity.

Domaine Rapet Père & Fils, a family-run estate with a rich history dating back to the 18th century, has long been revered for its dedication to capturing the essence of its vineyards through meticulous cultivation and vinification practices. The “Aux Fournaux” 2015 is no exception, showcasing the domaine’s skill in producing Pinot Noir that eloquently expresses the unique characteristics of its terroir. The vineyard’s limestone and clay soils contribute to the wine’s mineral undertones and structural complexity, while the careful management of vineyard practices ensures the health and quality of the fruit.

The winemaking process for the “Aux Fournaux” 2015 involved hand-harvesting the grapes at their peak maturity, followed by rigorous sorting to select only the best fruit. Fermentation was conducted with indigenous yeasts to preserve the natural flavors and enhance the wine’s connection to its terroir. Aging in French oak barrels, selected for their quality and compatibility with the wine, added subtle notes of spice, toast, and vanilla, enriching the wine’s aromatic profile without overshadowing the purity of the fruit.

Upon tasting, the 2015 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” unveils a rich tapestry of aromas and flavors. The nose is greeted with an intoxicating blend of ripe cherries, blackberries, and plums, accented by hints of violet, forest floor, and a delicate spiciness. On the palate, the wine is both powerful and elegant, with a lush texture and layers of dark fruit, complemented by nuances of earth and minerality. The tannins are well-integrated and smooth, contributing to the wine’s impressive structure and depth, while the finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression of the wine’s quality and the vintage’s generosity.

This vintage exemplifies the potential of the Savigny-les-Beaune appellation to produce Premier Cru wines of exceptional caliber, capable of rivalling those from more famous neighboring regions. The “Aux Fournaux” 2015, with its balance of intensity and elegance, is poised for long-term aging, promising to evolve gracefully over the next decade or more, revealing greater complexity and refinement with time.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the 2015 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” by Domaine Rapet Père & Fils represents an opportunity to experience the pinnacle of Burgundian winemaking. It is a wine that not only offers immediate pleasure but also holds the promise of future discovery, embodying the beauty, depth, and diversity of Burgundy’s vinicultural heritage.