Chandon de Briailles "Ile des Vergelesses" Pernand-Vergelesses Rouge, 1er Cru '22

Domaine Chandon de Briailles is a historic, family-run estate in Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune, founded in 1834 and still stewarded by the de Nicolay family. With roughly 14 hectares spread across Savigny-lès-Beaune, Pernand-Vergelesses, and the grand cru slopes of Corton, the domaine is known for its classical terroirs of limestone and marl and its steadfast commitment to biodynamic viticulture—banning synthetic treatments as early as 1989 and earning Demeter certification by 2011. Today François and Claude de Nicolay guide an approach that emphasizes natural wine making. In the vineyard, ploughing is done by horses, treatments are kept to a minimum, and soil is worked by hand. In the winery, they employ
whole-cluster fermentations, minimal new oak, and even make their own sulphur dioxide, which is used sparingly. The results are wines of incredible purity, finesse, and clear expression of place. As a long time fan of these wines, I can say clearly that the 2022 vintage is probably the best vintage I’ve ever tasted from the Domaine. 

Île des Vergelesses is widely considered the crown jewel of Pernand-Vergelesses, a south- to southeast-facing premier cru positioned on the slope where Pernand meets Savigny. The name “Île” refers not to an island but to the parcel’s distinct, naturally bounded shape, almost encircled by adjacent vineyards and small valleys, giving it a sense of isolation within the hillside. Situated mid-slope at ideal altitude, the vineyard benefits from excellent exposure and drainage, with soils composed of limestone-rich marl over compacted bedrock. This mix yields wines of tension, minerality, and lift, traits that contrast with the richer, broader profiles of nearby Savigny sites. The limestone content increases toward the upper slope, where roots reach deeper fissures that contribute to the wine’s linear, energetic structure. This is an outstanding Red Burgundy!