1996 Louis Jadot Echézeaux Grand Cru

Louis Jadot is a titan of Burgundy, and their Echézeaux represents the "aristocratic" side of the Côte de Nuits. The 1996 vintage is legendary for its longevity and high natural acidity, which has allowed this wine to age gracefully for three decades.

Highlights

• Vintage: 1996

• Region/Appellation: Echézeaux Grand Cru, Flagey-Echézeaux, Côte de Nuits, Burgundy

• Producer: Louis Jadot (Maison Louis Jadot)

• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir

• Style: Savory, classic, and complex. It offers a "masculine" structure typical of Echézeaux but with the refined, floral aromatics (violets and spice) that the 1996 vintage is famous for.

• Perfect for: Slow-braised game birds (duck or pheasant), venison with a truffle jus, or wild mushroom risotto. It also pairs spectacularly with mature, earthy French cheeses like Epoisses or Aged Comté.

Collector's Tip: This wine is at its absolute peak drinking window. Because 1996 was a high-acid year, it is highly recommended to decant this for about 30 minutes to let the aromatics fully expand, but be careful not to leave it too long, as very old Pinots can be fragile once exposed to air.