The Vigneview Verdict
I recently purchased a bottle of Domaine Michel Lafarge L’Exception 2018 Bourgogne Passetoutgrain (Pronounced: Borgonya Passe-too-grarn)and am so pleased with the results! The phrase passe tout grains actually means ‘pass all the grapes’. Within Burgundy’s Passe-Tout-Grains AOC regions, the wines are a blend of Pinot Noir and Gamay Noir grapes. The blend must include a minimum of 1/3 Pinot Noir and maximum of 2/3 Gamay grapes being mixed together before vinification. A harmonious medley of Pinot Noir and Gamay Noir grapes; this wine is deliciously savoury yet also seductive.
The wine captivates with a magenta hue in the glass and exudes an array of delightful aromas and flavours. Early on, my nose was treated to a fresh summer’s harvest of red cherry, raspberry and subtle blueberry notes. Once savoured, I further enjoyed a bit of lingering sweet baking spice which suggests light oak contact. Additionally, I detected the most gorgeous hint of mushroom, indicative of some bottle ageing, along with a touch of rustic earthiness.
The mouthfeel was velvety with soft tannins, yet filled with an uplifting, fresh acidity that offered a beautiful sense of elegance and contrasting complexity. This bottle is a fantastic example of what the Bourgogne Passetoutgrain AOC is capable of producing. No wonder it’s been christened L’Exception!
Food Pairing
This bottle of Domaine Michel Lafarge L’Exception 2018 Bourgogne Passetoutgrain is a highly versatile wine. Enjoy pairing with pork dishes such as savoury sausages, tenderloin and even cold-cuts of ham. This is a great picnic wine, as it goes remarkably well with charcuterie-style dishes, roasted vegetables and hummus.
Pair this wine with cheeses such as Brie or Camembert.
Cheers! x
Producer: Domaine Michel Lafarge
Country: France
Region: Bourgogne Passetoutgrain AOC
Vintage: 2018
Grapes: 50% Gamay & 50% Pinot Noir
Closure: Cork
Style: Still
Colour: Ruby with hints of purple
Sweetness: dry
Acidity: Medium+
Tannins: Low
Alcohol: 12.5%
Body: Medium-
Aromas/Flavours:
Red fruits: raspberry and red cherry brandy (kirsch)
Black fruits: subtle blueberry notes
Oak: Subtle sweet baking spice and black pepper
Other: Mushroom and earth
Drinking Window: Drink now until 2025
Price: £24 (Hic!)