Michel Lafarge Passetoutgrain L’Exception 2022

From vines planted in 1930’s on gravel and sandy soil that suits the 50/50 Gamay/Pinot field blend. Oddly, both varieties reach maturity at the same time. Normally Gamay would ripen quite a bit earlier. It seems that this vineyard is in harmony. 100% de-stemmed, lightly crushed, pneumatic press, indigenous yeast fermentation. Aged for 15-18 months in barrel, unfiltered.

‘ The 2022 Bourgogne Passetoutgrain L’Exceptionne is Gamay and Pinot Noir picked together from 94-year-old vines planted by Clothilde Lafarge’s great-grandfather. It has wonderful transparency on the nose: red cherries mixed with raspberry. The palate leans more towards the Pinot Noir, with fine delineation, gentle grip and ample tension on the finish. A strong follow-up to the excellent 2021. Drink 2024-2029’ (88-90) points, Neal Martin, Vinous Oct 2023

‘94 year old vine, coming from the same vintage as Michel Lafarge. Mid crimson red. A very attractive red berry fruit on the nose, nothing dramatic, not speaking especially of either grape. Refines in the glass. Pinot flavours with gamay’s more acidic structure in the glass, but an unusual wealth of fruit. Very good example. Drink from 2025-2028. Tasted Dec 2023.’ 87-90 points, Jasper Morris, Inside Burgundy