Santenay Premier Cru – Passetemps 2023 – Château de la Charrière (Yves Girardin)

Tasting notes:This wine opens with fresh red fruit aromas—cherry, raspberry, and more—gently complemented by a hint of vanilla from oak ageing. On the palate, it is well-balanced, generous, and full-bodied, with subtle oak nuances, superb tannic structure, and excellent length on the finish.

Food pairings: Perfect alongside charcuterie, red meats, beef Wellington, roasted poultry, coq au vin, mushrooms, and a selection of mature cheeses.

Year: 2023

Tasting: 16-18°

Volume of alcohol: 13%

The Estate and the Vineyard

The viticultural tradition of the GIRARDIN family dates back 13 generations, with the estate thriving in the 1960s under the initiative of Jean GIRARDIN, who notably acquired the Château de la Charrière. Growing up amidst the vines and in the cellar, Yves developed a passion for the art of winemaking. In 1981, the family estate of 12 hectares was divided, leaving Yves in charge of a 3-hectare operation. Seeking to broaden horizons and diversify the range of appellations, he invested in vineyards in Chassagne-Montrachet and Pommard, thereby expanding the total area to 21.50 hectares. In 2003, Yves acquired the Château de la Charrière, a long-standing property in the family, and expanded operations with the construction of a new cellar. In 2011, Benoît returned to the estate after studying in Beaune and Bordeaux, with the aim of perpetuating the family heritage and expertise.

Vinification is carried out manually, with careful observation and management of vegetation allowing for minimal use of products. Only French oak barrels are used in the aging process.