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Domaine Justin Girardin, Santenay Rouge 1er Cru, Clos Rousseau, Burgundy, France, 2020

Product code: 5838

Producer Profile

Domaine Justin Girardin is very much a family affair, with a winemaking heritage that stretches back to the beginning of the 19th Century. Jacques (brother of Vincent) handed over the running of the 17ha family domaine to his son Justin in 2012. Whilst not being officially certified, Justin uses many organic techniques, as he is passionate about producing wines that express terroir. The results are superbly perfumed, multi-layered wines.

Viticulture

The Clos Rousseau vineyard is located on the southern boundary of the Santenay appellation, bordering Maranges. The vines, averaging 45 years of age, are planted on clay-limestone soils rich in limestone marls, which help to retain moisture and refresh the vines during summer. The vineyard is farmed according to biodynamic principles, though not certified, with practices including manual harvesting, de-budding, and leaf-thinning to ensure optimal grape quality.

Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a triple sorting process—twice in the vineyard and once in the winery. The fruit is destemmed and subjected to a cold maceration at 12°C for 5–7 days to extract primary aromas. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts at temperatures between 26–30°C, lasting approximately 20 days. The wine is aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, 20% of which are new, followed by a light filtration before bottling.

Tasting Note

Ripe red fruits such as cherry and raspberry, with subtle floral notes and a hint of oak spice. On the palate, it is structured and powerful, with fine tannins and a long, mineral-driven finish, indicating excellent ageing potential.