Jacques-Frederic Mugnier Bonnes Mares Grand Cru 2016 750ml

Aromas of sweet red berries, cherries and grilled meats mingle with nuances of spices, dark chocolate and peony in a complex bouquet, introducing the 2016 Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, a full-bodied, dense and layered wine that’s broad-shouldered, rich and dramatic, with a deep, succulent core of fruit and a long, precise finish. It was wide open when I tasted it, and it will be fascinating to compare with the 2015 and 2016 renditions of Mugnier’s Bonnes Mares in a few years time to see if the latter remains more extravagant than the former.

• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Appellation: Cote De Nuits
• Sub Appellation: Bonnes Mares
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red

Varietal

Pinot Noir

Regularly described as being the grape varietal responsible for producing the world’s most romantic wines, Pinot Noir has long been associated with elegance and a broad range of flavors The name means ‘black pine’ in French, and this is due to the fact that the fruit of this particular varietal is especially dark in color, and hangs in a conical shape, like that of a pine cone. Despite being grown today in almost every wine producing country, Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape variety to cultivate. This is because it is especially susceptible to various forms of mold and mildew, and thrives best in steady, cooler climates. However, the quality of the fruit has ensured that wineries and vintners have persevered with the varietal, and new technologies and methods have overcome many of the problems it presents. Alongside this, the wide popularity and enthusiasm for this grape has ensured it will remain a firm favorite amongst wine drinkers for many years to come.