Domaine Sylvain Pataille, Les Longeroies, Marsannay, Burgundy, France, 2017

Sylvain Pataille trained as an oenologist in Bordeaux, and now consults to around 15 domaines in Burgundy. He has built a reputation as a brilliant winemaker, and is a reliable source of value for those who can't afford the top-level Burgundies. The grapes for this delightful Pinot Noir were grown in a sunny, mid-slope vineyard, ripening easily. 100% whole bunches were used in the fermentation, giving less extraction and more freshness. Super drinkable, with perfumed, poised red berry fruit, light oak influence and lovely acidity. A real vin de soif.