BURGUNDY - France 2014 - page 1281

2011 This was yet another vintage with tricky weather—a long drought in the springtime and pour-
ing rains in the summer meant that for the third time in less than 10 years, the harvest began in
August, which doesn't allow the grapes to take advantage of September sun. So the quality of
the wine will depend on the winemaker's talent. This vintage will have to be appreciated for
its fruit, but will not be a wine to keep for long.
2012 Looks to be much like 2010, with below-average production but good quality for reds and
whites. Because quantity is low, prices are likely to be high.
Villages North of Beaune
Aloxe-Corton
This small village, with several good tasting opportunities, is just a 10-minute drive north
of Beaune.
Atthe Domaines d'Aloxe-Corton caveau, youcansamplesevenmakersofthefam-
ousAloxe-Cortonwinesinacomfortableandrelaxedsetting.Pricesareaffordable,andthe
easygoingstaffspeaksenoughEnglish(smallfeefortasting,freeifyoubuy2bottles,Thu-
Mon10:00-13:00&15:00-19:00,usuallyclosedTue-Wed,tel.[phone]).You'llfind
the caveau a few steps from the little square in Aloxe-Corton.
Mischief and Mayhem is a dream come true for Anglophones serious about Bur-
gundianwine.British-born-and-raisedFionaandMichaelmakefinewinesandsellthemat
fair prices (€13-60, but little middle ground). Though eager to add their own style to their
wines, they are thoroughly immersed in Burgundian culture and can help you make sense
of this region's wine culture. It's a small operation, so tasting hours vary (generally late
mornings and afternoons Thu-Sat, call ahead, a few blocks below the church on D-115d
to Ladoix-Serrigny at 10 Impasse du Puits, tel. [phone], mobile [phone],
www.mischiefandmayhem.com ) .
Domaine Comte Senard is famous for its prestigious wines and table d'hôte, where
yougetafulllunchwithmatchingwinesandthoroughexplanationsfromthewinesteward
as you go (Tue-Sat 12:00-14:00, €45 with 4 wines, €55 with 6 wines, €65 with 8 wines).
It's a fun, convivial way to spend two hours learning about the local product—be sure to
come early to make the most of the experience. You can also drop by at non-lunch hours
to sample their wines (€10 tasting, free if you purchase wine, Tue-Sat 12:00-18:00, closed
Sun-Mon, 1 Rue des Chaumes, tel. [phone], www.table-comte-senard.com ).