2010 J.F. Mugnier Bonnes Mares

Domaine Jacques Frederic Mugnier is comprised of nearly 40 acres in Chambolle-Musigny, in Burgundy. The domain has the second largest holding of vines in the Musigny vineyard, which makes it a major landholder in the region. Only its neighbor Comte de Vogue has a larger holding in the prestigious Musigny vineyard. Domaine J.F. Mugnier was founded in 1863 when Frederic Mugnier, a spirits dealer from Dijon, purchased land in Chambolle-Musigny. The domaine has remained in the family through the generations, though the size of the domaine has changed. Today the domaine is run by Frederic Mugnier, who was an airline pilot and oil engineer before devoting himself full time to the family enterprise. J.F. Mugnier’s wines “are some of the most delicious, intriguing Pinot Noirs in Burgundy,” according to Robert M. Parker Jr. "Especially noteworthy are the Grand Crus, Musigny and Bonnes Mares."

Bonnes Mares is a Grand Cru vineyard that is located in two appellations Chambolle-Musigny and the neighboring Morey St.-Denis. Of the total of 37.6 acres, 33.75 are in Chambolle, and just under 4 acres are in Morey St. Denis. The history of the vineyard is complicated and today there are some 35 landholders. The vineyard lies between 265 and 300 meters. The soil is heavier toward Morey St.-Denis, which is the northern end of the vineyard, and lighter as the vineyard enters the Chambolle-Musigny commune. Principal landholders are De Vogue, 6.7 acres; Drouhin-Laroze, 3.7 acres; and Georges Roumier, 3.5 acres.

This red wine is relatively light and can pair with a wide variety of foods. The grape prefers cooler climates and the wine is most often associated with Burgundy, Champagne and the U.S. west coast. Regional differences make it nearly as fickle as it is flexible.