Domaine Michel Sarrazin, Maranges (Burgundy, France) 2020

 With prices of fine Burgundy rising every vintage, it’s refreshing to find wines of this quality still available at relatively affordable levels.  Maranges is an oft-overlooked appellation at the south end of the Côte de Beaune.  It has long been a fine source of affordable, high quality red Burgundies.  The 2020 Sarrazin Maranges is exemplary of the appellation.  Ripe red cherry and raspberry fruit aromas are deliciously pure.  The intense fruits are enhanced by elegant floral, herb and baking spice tones. The flavors are lively and spicy with the pure, tart red fruits followed by floral, earthy, herb and baking spice elements. It is pure and lively on the palate with surprising depth and nuance.  Burgundian Pinot Noir is endearing because it balances pure fruit character with an enchanting combination of texture and layering.  The Sarrazin Maranges offers all of these qualities and more.