DOMAINE JEAN ET FRANÇOIS RAQUILLET

We have represented François Raquillet since the 1993 vintage, when he was a talented, up-and-coming vigneron. Today, he is recognised as, possibly, the best producer in the village. François, the 11th generation of grape growers in Mercurey, has 10 hectares of superbly sited, mostly old, vines. He believes in low yields, mature (rather than super-ripe) fruit and a severe selection at the table de tri. The depth, richness and concentration which characterise his wines are a result of this, rather than any over extraction.

The Bourgogne Rouge and Mercurey Vieilles Vignes, from 3 parcels, totalling 1.5 hectare of 60-year-old vines, facing east and south on clay limestone. Matured in oak barrels (30% new) for 12 months. Delicious, juicy and seductive, whilst the 1er Crus have even more depth, richness and potential longevity.

Les Vasées is a 1.2 hectares of 55-year-old south facing vines planted on Marne and limestone soils. 50% new oak barrels. 100% destemmed. Les Veleys is a 0.7 hectare of 70 year old east facing vines in the sector of Chamirey on heavier Marne soils. Vinified in 400 litre demi-muids (40% new). Les Naugues is from perfectly sited, south facing 40-year-old vines on marne and limestone soils. 40% new oak barrels. The Mercurey Blanc “La Brigadière” is a revelation from 2 hectares of 25-year-old vines, facing west-south-west at 350m on stony marne soils. Vinified and matured in half foudre and half barrel – 20% new.

www.domaine-raquillet.com