2017 Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune Rouge, Domaine Françoise et Denis Clair

This is a great value Burgundian Pinot Noir, made from a blend of grapes from two areas – one above Saint-Aubin, the other near the little-known First Growth called Maranges, to the south of Santenay. The vines are really fine Pinots, producing small berries with thick skins – and half the plantings are old vines. Colour is medium-deep, rich purple, the nose being cleanly ripe and fruity. Palate shows attractive fruitiness, with good middle and harmonious farewell (for drinking 2019-2020).