Presentation
The world-renowned Hospices de Beaune figures among the great Burgundian institutions. Founded in 1443 to help the most needy, this historic hospital is set at the heart of the old town, in one of the finest ensembles of European medieval architecture. Over the centuries, the institution has received donations and legacies from local families, mainly in the form of vineyards. Today they total nearly 60 hectares, representing one of the region’s most impressive winegrowing estates. Vinified on the premises under the direction of the charismatic winemaker Ludivine Griveau, these grand, prestigious wines are sold each year en primeur at a spectacular auction held in November following the harvest. Each year, as of 1916 or even earlier, Maison Edouard Delaunay has purchased some of the finest cuvées that it ages and bottles with utmost care for its best clients.
Terroir
A major benefactor of the Hospices, Bernard Gauvain donated all of his possessions to the Hospice de la Charité in 1804, demonstrating his deep attachment to the institution. The vines behind this cuvée are located in two of Volnay’s most renowned lieux-dits: Les Santenots du Milieu and Les Plures. Facing East/South-East, these parcels enjoy excellent exposure and soils combining light clay and stones — typical of the commune’s hillsides. This well-balanced terroir gives the cuvée poise, finesse, and depth, in the pure tradition of the great wines of Volnay.
Winemaking
This wine was vinified by the charismatic oenologist of the Hospices de Beaune, Ludivine Griveau. Hand-harvested, the grapes underwent a rigorous sorting process on a sorting table. The grapes were destemmed, followed by a maceration period of 17 to 19 days with punch-downs and pump-overs. The wine was then aged for approximately 18 months in new oak barrels, with the final stage of the aging process entrusted to the Maison Edouard Delaunay.
Specifications
Tasting
Magnificent deep color. The nose, noble and expressive, rises gracefully with delicate floral nuances of peony, notes of dried fruits (hazelnut, sugared almond), and subtle hints of baked peach. The attack on the palate is fresh and profound, supported by perfectly integrated acidity—a reflection of ideal ripeness. The texture is superb: rich and velvety. Mentholated spices and fresh balsamic notes reminiscent of pine forest emerge, along with refined, slightly peppery tannins (grey pepper). Flavors of chocolate and crushed hazelnut carry the tasting through with intensity. A wine of character—remarkably beautiful and clearly built for aging. A great wine.