Two Pioneers: André Beaufort in Champagne; Jean-Claude Rateau in Burgundy!
12/8/24 -
Champagne André Beaufort converted to organic agriculture in 1971 (at the same time as Georges Laval) - they are true pioneers in farming and wine-making, creating real Champagnes of terroir, always with extended sur-lie aging. (After some snafus at US customs involving "Brut Nature" all the wines are finally in the warehouse and ready for purchase and shipping. We apologize for the delay!) A favorite at our recent tasting with Réol Beaufort at Chambers was the complex and vibrant 1997, disgorged a la volée. Sold out, but more is on the way. How about a vertical New Year's Eve, 1999 to 2010!
(Photo: After dinner at Chambers)
Jean-Claude Rateau was the fourth vigneron in France, and the first in Burgundy, to convert to Biodynamics, beginning with two hectares in 1979. Some of the greatest estates in Burgundy have followed his footsteps, recognizing the importance of living soils in the creation of great wine. A new shipment of these beautiful wines has just arrived, featuring three vintages of the classic Beaune 1er Cru "Les Bressandes" and the fresh and delightful wines from the Hautes-Cotes, not forgetting our favorite Beaune "village" wine, the gorgeous Clos des Mariages!
