Mercurey Heritage 2018

The Maison Antonin Rodet has been synonymous with Mercurey since 1875, when it was founded by Antoine Rodet, known as Antonin. He was quick to realize the potential of the Côte Chalonnaise and invested in the vineyards despite the ongoing phylloxera crisis. At the time, Mercurey enjoyed an excellent reputation, if one can judge by the writing of Jules Chevrier, President of the Chalon-sur-Saône history and archaeology society, in his 1883 work Chalon-sur-Saône pittoresque et démoli. He described it as “The climat which produces the best wine on the Côte Chalonnaise”.

Mercurey is the second-biggest appellation in Burgundy (after Chablis), with some 649 hectares of vine. The appellation is located at the north of the Côte Chalonnaise and was created in 1923.

The vineyards comprise 543.17 hectares of red and 105.83 of white*. They grow on hillsides with more varying orientations than the other nearby appellations, which are located on the continuation of the Côte de Beaune and mainly face southeast.

The wines of Mercurey can be drunk young, but will also improve with age. The reds are elegant, fruity and moreish, full-fleshed with spicy aromas. Mercurey Héritage is a prime example. Made from a blend of Mercurey village and Mercurey premier cru grapes, it combines the best of the appellation.

It is an elegant wine, its bold fruit underscored by smooth tannins. Ageing in 25% new barrels brings subtle oaking which delicately envelopes the aromas of blackcurrant and raspberry. The 2018 can be enjoyed in its first flush of youth or can be kept for another three years.

2018 harvest

Quality and quantity: An outstanding vintage!

Harvesting took place from 27 August to 18 September. Localized rain had an impact on ripeness, which was disparate from plot to plot. The Pinot Noirs provided deep purple juice, promising a rich and powerful vintage.

After a very mild winter, the vines’ growth cycle was affected by two contrasting periods. The sunny springtime meant the vines were spared any frosts, although there were some episodes of hale. The summer was then very hot and dry, which led to ripening being slowed in some places. However, the yield was exceptionally high and the condition of the fruit was impeccable, offering all the potential to make wines of great finesse.

* Source: BIVB 2021