2017 Domaine Chanson Pere et Fils Marsannay 750 ml

Sometimes it’s challenging to track down quality Burgundy at a price that doesn’t make your credit card groan—but sometimes we venture into an underrated appellation and find a star. The 2017 Chanson Pere et Fils Marsannay certainly fits that bill, delivering big Burgundy class without the big Burgundy price tag. 

Founded in 1750, Chanson is one of Burgundy’s oldest estates. They own 111 acres of vines scattered across the region, which allows them to access the best grapes in any season—and to deliver value that younger producers can’t match.

The historic Domaine Chanson cellar, where this 2017 was aged, is actually a medieval tower that dates back to the time when King Louis XI was defending his claim in Beaune. The stone walls of the tower are 26 feet thick, making them basically impenetrable—and a nice, cool place to store immaculate Pinot.

Head to the northernmost reaches of the Côte de Nuits and you’ll find Marsannay just a few miles down the road from Dijon. Marsannay doesn’t boast any big-name Grand Cru vineyards, but it does have some impeccably farmed micro-plots that produce seriously good grapes. Chanson works with multiple growers to source fruit from tiny vineyard pockets like these, then treats the Pinot with ultimate care in the cellar.

The 2017 Chanson Marsannay’s vinification began with 100% whole-cluster fermentation for two weeks, then the wine aged for between 14 and 18 months in casks that had a maximum of 30% new oak. The finished product displays Chanson’s signature balance of gorgeous aromatics, fresh fruit, and spice, all wrapped in a blanket of silky tannins.