Santenay AOC 1er Cru Clos des Gravières Vieilles Vignes 2022 Hubert Lamy

What kind of wine is it?

Santenay 1er Cru Clos des Gravières Vieilles Vignes by Hubert Lamy is a dry red wine from Burgundy, made from Pinot Noir grapes harvested from vines over 50 years old. This Premier Cru stands out for its elegant and precise profile, with a vinification that includes skin maceration and long ageing in oak barrels. The result is a medium-bodied wine with fine tannins and a structure suitable for ageing in the bottle, offering a balance between fruit, spices, and woody notes.

Where does it come from?

This wine is produced in the Santenay area, in the Côte de Beaune in southern Burgundy, from the climat Clos des Gravières classified as Premier Cru. The mature vines, indicated by the term Vieilles Vignes, contribute to greater concentration and reduced yields. The characteristics of the soil are typical of the area, though not further specified. The growing environment enhances grape quality and the wine’s complexity.

How is it made?

Harvesting is done by hand with careful selection of the bunches. Crushing is partial: part of the grapes are destemmed and some enter the vat whole, a choice that enhances aromatic definition and tannic texture. Fermentation occurs with skin maceration, followed by malolactic fermentation to soften the acidity. Ageing lasts 18-24 months in oak barrels, gradually incorporating toasted notes and stabilizing the structure before bottling.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it has a bright ruby red color, with the transparency typical of Pinot Noir. The nose reveals pure aromas of cherry, raspberry, and violet, with sweet spices and subtle hints of oak recalling toast and vanilla. On the palate, it displays a silky texture, finely integrated tannins, and good acidity. The finish is clean and persistent, with measured wood that leaves room for fruit elegance.

Food pairing

This Santenay pairs well with game and red meats thanks to its structure and fine tannins, and is also excellent with aged hard cheeses. With French cuisine, it enhances sauced dishes and slow cooking, where acidity and spice help keep the palate fresh. A classic pairing is boeuf bourguignon, and it also matches beautifully with roast duck, braised hare, and mushroom-based dishes, always retaining a balanced profile.

When to serve

This is a red ideal for the table in cooler seasons or at dinners that call for finesse without overpowering strength. Serve at 16-18°C in large glasses, and consider brief aeration if the bottle is young to open up its aromas and tannins. The structure and oak ageing allow the wine to evolve positively over time, developing complexity and harmony. Under optimal storage conditions, it maintains its qualities for several years, offering a broad and consistent drinking window.