Wine Review – 2005 Domaine Bertagna Pinot Noir

Domaine Bertagna has been around since the 1950’s and was a small family vineyard. In the early 1980’s is was bought by the Gunther Reh family (they own numerous wine ventures across the world) and is now run by Eva Reh-Siddle. She has since grown the estate and totally modernized the facilities. Today, Domaine Bertagna produces 18 different varietals of which 5 are Grand Crus and 7 are Premier Crus. That is pretty impressive. But I wouldn’t expect any less from one of the larger vineyards in Burgundy. Eva Reh-Siddle believes that wine is made in the vineyard and the quality of the wine reflects the work done throughout the year. She respects the “terrior” and doesn’t use any chemicals or pesticides. The vines are mainly located on the Cotes de Nuits and grow in the limestone and clay soils of France.

We had the Bourgogne Hautes-Cotes de Nuits Rouge, which is 100% pinot noir. In the glass it is a light ruby color and has nice clear edges. It has aromas of earth, mineral and a hint of dark red fruit. It has a very smooth feel in the mouth and very pleasant finish. This wine is pretty complex and while on the palate, you will get hints of fresh herbs, some earthiness, some slight mineral tastes, and some flavors of plum and blackberry. But since this is a French wine through and through, don’t expect it to be very fruit forward. This bottle retails for around $25-$30 and would go nicely with roasted chicken and vegtables or wild salmon with an Asian glaze.

Cheers!