Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” 2014 – Domaine Rapet Père & Fils

The 2014 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” by Domaine Rapet Père & Fils is a quintessential embodiment of the artistry and terroir-driven focus that defines the finest Burgundian winemaking. This distinguished wine, hailing from one of the most revered Premier Cru vineyards in the region, captures the essence of its vintage and the unique characteristics of its specific location within Savigny-les-Beaune. The “Aux Fournaux” vineyard, known for its optimal sun exposure and a soil composition rich in limestone and clay, provides an ideal setting for cultivating Pinot Noir grapes that express depth, complexity, and an inherent elegance.

The 2014 vintage in Burgundy was characterized by a growing season with its share of climatic challenges, including a cool and wet start to the summer. However, the late season warmth and sunshine that followed allowed the grapes to mature fully, developing a balanced acidity and concentrated flavors that are indicative of a potentially great vintage. Domaine Rapet Père & Fils, with its generations of experience and deep understanding of the nuances of their terroir, navigated these conditions expertly, producing a wine that stands as a testament to the resilience and potential of Burgundy’s vineyards.

In crafting the “Aux Fournaux” 2014, the domaine adhered to its philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the vineyard to shine through. The grapes were harvested by hand, ensuring that only the finest fruit was selected for vinification. Following a careful sorting process, the grapes underwent fermentation using indigenous yeasts, a method that further anchors the wine to its terroir by utilizing the microflora native to the vineyard. Aging in French oak barrels, thoughtfully chosen for their ability to enhance without dominating the wine’s profile, added layers of complexity, introducing subtle notes of spice, vanilla, and a gentle toastiness that complement the wine’s fruit-driven character.

Upon tasting, the 2014 Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru “Aux Fournaux” unfolds with a delicate yet pronounced bouquet of aromas. Red and black cherries, raspberries, and a hint of blackcurrant form the core of the wine’s olfactory profile, intertwined with floral notes of violets and peonies, earthy undertones, and a discreet minerality that speaks to the limestone-rich soils of its origin. On the palate, the wine reveals a refined structure, with silky tannins and a vibrant acidity that brings freshness and longevity. The interplay of fruit and earth, enhanced by the judicious use of oak, leads to a finish that is both long and nuanced, leaving a lingering impression of finesse and sophistication.

The “Aux Fournaux” 2014 is not merely a reflection of the skill of Domaine Rapet Père & Fils but also a celebration of the unique expression of time and place. It exemplifies the potential of the Savigny-les-Beaune appellation to produce wines of profound complexity and elegance, capable of standing alongside the best of Burgundy. With its inherent balance and depth, this wine possesses significant aging potential, promising to evolve gracefully over the next decade or more, gradually unveiling the full spectrum of its complexity.

As it matures, the “Aux Fournaux” 2014 will continue to offer a window into the character of its vintage and the distinctive qualities of its terroir. It stands as a compelling choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike, offering an experience that is both intellectually engaging and sensorially rewarding. Whether enjoyed in its youth or allowed to age, this wine represents a pinnacle of Burgundian craftsmanship, a testament to the legacy of Domaine Rapet Père & Fils, and a vibrant expression of the enduring allure of Burgundy’s wines.