Santenay is a picturesque village located in the southern part of Burgundy's Côte de Beaune. Known for its vineyards that produce exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the region is celebrated for its commitment to sustainable and traditional winemaking practices. The soils, rich in limestone, contribute to the distinctive quality of Santenay's wines. This appellation offers a range of wines that embody the classic character of Burgundy, often at more accessible prices than neighboring villages like Meursault and Chassagne-Montrachet, making it a great choice for Burgundy enthusiasts seeking value and authenticity.
The 2022 Santenay Clos de Saint-Jean, sourced from the maternal lineage of the Domaine, opens with lively aromas of wild strawberry and Morello cherry. It’s well-defined, with a sappy texture and balanced acidity, offering a firm grip. This Santenay is enjoyable and can be consumed comfortably within the next 6 to 8 years. This wine is perfectly suited for individuals who seek an interesting yet accessible Burgundy. It would resonate with collectors and drinkers who appreciate terroir-driven wines.
Domaine Philippe Colin was founded in 2004. Today, the domaine manages 12.5 hectares of vineyards, located throughout Chassagne-Montrachet and its surrounding areas. The total annual production is approximately 100,000 bottles, comprising both white and red wines spread across 24 different appellations. Some of these are produced in very small quantities, offering a chance to explore various terroirs from within the same region. Fermentation at Philippe Colin begins in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in French oak barrels for 12 to 15 months. The wines are then lightly filtered and bottled using gravity. In 2021, Philippe Colin passed on two-thirds of the estate's vineyards to his son, Simon, who now bottles under his own label. Philippe retained five hectares, most of which are rented from his mother’s sisters and his partner, Gwenaëlle Bidault. By the summer of 2022, the office and storage facilities were relocated to a former family residence, allowing more focus on a South African venture. The portfolio includes: White wines - Bourgogne Aligoté, Bourgogne Chardonnay, Chassagne-Montrachet village, Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets, Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru La Boudriotte, Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Embazées, Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru La Romanée, Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Folatières, Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru; Red wines - Bourgogne Pinot Noir, Chassagne-Montrachet village, Chassagne-Montrachet Les Clos Saint-Jean, Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru La Grande Montagne, Santenay 1er Cru Beaurepaire, Maranges 1er Cru Clos de la Boutière, Santenay village.