Extremely limited allocation — 2 bottles available.

Since 2021, Henri Chauvet has been the custodian of 10.5 hectares of vineyards around Boudes in the Auvergne, working steep, diverse slopes planted to Gamay, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. He began the conversion to organic farming as soon as he took over the vineyards, with a philosophy centred on respecting the character of the land and allowing the wines to express their place with as little interference as possible.

Échappée Belle is a little different from Chauvet’s estate wines: a 100% Pinot Noir négociant cuvée made with fruit sourced from Alsace. It is a beautiful illustration of his ability to work with fruit beyond his own vineyards while maintaining the freshness, precision and transparency that define his wines.

The 2024 is wonderfully bright and energetic, packed with wild strawberry, raspberry and crunchy red cherry, with delicate floral notes, subtle spice and a gently savoury, earthy edge. The palate is supple and juicy, driven by vibrant acidity and fine, almost weightless tannins. There is a lovely sense of movement and freshness through the wine, finishing with a subtle mineral character and plenty of lift.

Pure, expressive and incredibly easy to drink without ever feeling simple, Échappée Belle is a compelling take on Pinot Noir from a grower whose wines are putting Boudes firmly on the map.