Author: Dirk Chan
This is a special pre-sell for 2022 Bouchard Pere et Fils Beaune Greves Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus Premier Cru (Beaune, Burgundy, France) – $374.99
Over the course of deVine’s 20 years in business, this 2022 vintage is only the third time we’re offering any of the Bouchard Pere et Fils Beaune Greves Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus Premier Cru (following the 2005 and 2014’s). Nicked name the Baby Jesus, it is a highly sought after red Burgundy – such is the limited availability that we have only six bottles for sale. This Pre-Sell ends on Sunday, Sep 28th at midnight and is pre-selling on a first-come, first-serve basis. Any unsold bottles from the pre-sell will sell for over $400 on arrival in early October.
The Burgundian wine domaine of Bouchard Pére et Fils can trace its origins back to 1731 and the L’Enfant Jesus’ 3.91 hectare plot was acquired via auction in 1791 – its mid-slope location and east and south-east facing location makes it the first parcels to be picked.
One of the legendary wines of the Beaune appellation, the Bouchard Pere et Fils Beaune Greves Vigne de L’Enfant Jésus is a signature wine from this estate. The vineyard is located inside the vast Beaune Greves vineyard – one of the best 1er crus of Beaune – and the Vigne de L’Enfant Jésus plot is located in what is widely considered the best part of Beaune Greves … in the very center of the vineyard. The reputation of this wine – nicked name The Baby Jesus, is if any Premier Cru Burgundy in Beaune were to be upgraded to Grand Cru, this would be one of the leading contenders for that honor. For information purposes, the great 2005 has been drinking marvelously for years now – elegance personified.
The 2022 vintage is a special year in Burgundy, ranking right up there for greatness alongside the esteemed 2019, 2015 and 2005’s. The 2022 Beaune 1er Cru Les Grèves Vigne de l’Enfant Jesus is lovely, wafting from the glass with aromas of blackberries, spices, violets and rose petals. Medium to full-bodied, broad and enveloping, with a fleshy attack that segues into a refined, mineral palate and a saline finish – it showcases Pinot Noir at its best. Some (30%) whole-bunch adds some floral perfume to the warm, spicy fruit. Notes of liquorice and graphite combine to give a warm, rounded feel. Drink 2026-2030.