Domaine François Lamarche, Bourgogne Rouge (Burgundy, France) 2011

Considering that they are the sole owners of the Grand Cru vineyard, La Grande Rue (one of the most expensive pieces of real estate in all of Burgundy since it’s bordered by La Tache, La Romanée, La Romanée-Conti, and Romanée Saint-Vivant), Domaine François Lamarche is one of the most under-rated Burgundy producers.  And since 2007, when the winemaking was handed over to François’s daughter, Nicole, and the vineyard management to her cousin, Nathalie, the quality of the wines has gotten even better.  This Bourgogne Rouge delivers engaging Côte de Nuits-style character — earthy and deep, yet clean and bright — that won’t break the bank.  If you want to know what Côte de Nuits wines taste like, this is the place to start.