Vincent Girardin Santenay Terre D'Enfance

Vincent Girardin Santenay Terre D'Enfance is a captivating red wine that reflects the rich heritage and diverse terroir of Burgundy's southernmost Côte de Beaune region. Crafted from hand-harvested grapes sourced from 45+-year-old vines rooted in Jurassic limestone soils, this wine delivers a vibrant bouquet of strawberries, raspberries, and violets, layered with hints of cinnamon and mint. As it ages, its firm tannins soften, revealing deeper notes of chestnut, dried plums, and a touch of pepper, creating a harmonious balance between bright fruits and earthy complexity. This flagship wine, affectionately named "childhood lands," pays homage to Girardin's roots while offering exceptional value and longevity, making it a must-have for Burgundy enthusiasts.

Process & Profile

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Vincent Girardin Santenay Terre D'Enfance is a fine example of Burgundy winemaking tradition. This wine is made exclusively from 100% Pinot Noir grapes sourced from the historic vineyards of Santenay in Côte de Beaune, the birthplace of Vincent Girardin. The vines are 45 years old on average, rooted in soils rich in clay and Jurassic limestone, akin to the terroirs of esteemed regions like Gevrey-Chambertin. The winemaking process begins with hand-harvested grapes that undergo double sorting for purity. Partial destemming precedes a natural yeast fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks over three weeks. The wine is gently pressed and aged for 14 months in French oak barrels (15% new oak) on fine lees, following the lunar calendar for optimal bottling conditions without fining or filtering. This precision yields a wine that is both structured and expressive of its terroir.

Tasting Notes

The Vincent Girardin Santenay Terre D'Enfance is a well-constructed wine boasting a vibrant bouquet. On the nose, it highlights fresh strawberries, with evolving notes of dried plum and chestnut in older vintages. The palate offers layered flavors of small red fruits like raspberries and blueberries, accompanied by light spices such as cinnamon and a touch of mint. Its balanced acidity, soft tannins, and mineral-driven finish provide a harmonious tasting experience, making it suitable for aging as well as immediate enjoyment.

What Makes It Special

This wine stands out as Vincent Girardin's flagship offering, embodying the spirit of his “childhood lands” (Terre d'Enfance). The terroir of Santenay is distinctive, offering soils similar to both Bordeaux's Graves and Burgundy's Grand Cru plots like those of Côte de Nuits. The judicious use of sustainable practices, including vegan-friendly methods and lunar-based bottling, ensures both environmental responsibility and exceptional quality. The dedication to traditional craftsmanship and the region's unique geology result in a wine that punches well above its weight in value, delivering Premier Cru quality at an accessible price.

How to Enjoy

This versatile wine pairs beautifully with an array of dishes. Its robust flavors complement roasted meats, game, and a variety of cheeses. For a sophisticated pairing, serve alongside creamy white meats, fish, or shellfish. Ideal serving temperature is around 60°F (15°C), and decanting for 30 minutes prior to serving can enhance its complexity. Whether shared as an aperitif or during a casual gathering, the Vincent Girardin Santenay Terre D'Enfance is a timeless addition to any table.

Frequently Asked Questions