2021 René Leclerc, Bourgogne Rouge

Gevrey-Chambertin rolls off the tongue of every Burgundy lover, inspiring memories of rich, silky fruit framed by exotic spice and beguiling perfume. It’s enough to make any Pinot fan feel faint in the head. Oh wait: That may just be from the price tag! But no fear, if you look high and low you can still find hidden values in this hallowed Côte de Nuits commune. Our favorite example is the tried-and-true Bourgogne Rouge from the iconic Gevrey traditionalists at René Leclerc. This is not a vineyard at the border of the appellation, or even just a parcel surrounded by name brand name crus: This is 100% real Gevrey-Chambertin fruit culled from the estates numerous holdings. It has all the goods, and since it is vintage 2021, it’s classically styled and already entering its peak drinking window. All that for half the price of what many village level Gevrey sets you back these days! The Leclerc family are icons in the village of Gevrey-Chambertin. They have maintained a charming tasting roo