Serafin Pere et Fils, Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes 2013

Winery Background and History

Domaine Sérafin Père et Fils, established in 1947 by Polish immigrant Stanislas Sérafin, is situated in Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy. The estate has remained a family-run operation, with Christian Sérafin taking over in 1988. Known for its traditional winemaking approach, the domaine emphasizes low yields and meticulous vineyard management to produce concentrated, age-worthy wines that reflect the unique terroirs of the Côte de Nuits.

Producer and Winemaker

Christian Sérafin, the current proprietor and winemaker, upholds the family’s commitment to quality and tradition. He emphasizes low yields, careful grape selection, and the use of new oak barrels to enhance the structure and complexity of the wines. Christian’s hands-on approach ensures that each wine expresses the character of its specific vineyard site.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The “Vieilles Vignes” cuvée is sourced from several parcels in Gevrey-Chambertin, with vines averaging 70–75 years of age, some exceeding 100 years. These old vines, located near prestigious Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites, benefit from a diverse terroir of limestone and clay soils. The region’s continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, contributes to the grapes’ balanced ripening and the wine’s depth and complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo rigorous sorting to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. Approximately 70% of the bunches are de-stemmed. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in 100% new French oak barrels for about 18 months. This approach imparts depth and complexity to the wine while preserving the purity of the Pinot Noir fruit.

Tasting Notes

The 2013 vintage exhibits a deep ruby hue. On the nose, it offers expressive aromas of black cherries, blackberries, and raspberries, complemented by gamey notes and subtle oak. The palate is medium to full-bodied, showcasing high acidity, integrated tannins, and a velvety texture. Flavors of red fruit, spice, and earth lead to a lingering finish, reflecting both seriousness and muscularity.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including roasted duck, veal, and game birds. Its elegance complements dishes like coq au vin, mushroom risotto, and grilled salmon. The wine’s acidity and tannic structure also make it a suitable match for aged cheeses, such as Comté or Brie de Meaux.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and texture, serve this wine at 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting for 30 minutes to an hour before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full bouquet and flavor profile. Use large Burgundy glasses to enhance the tasting experience, as they allow the wine’s aromas to concentrate and its flavors to unfold gracefully.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2013 Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes possesses the structure and balance to age gracefully for 10–15 years. Proper cellaring conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature—will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and depth over time. As it matures, expect the emergence of tertiary aromas such as truffle, forest floor, and dried fruit, adding to its allure and sophistication.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 12.8%

Scores

• Burghound (Allen Meadows): 90/100

• Vinous: 90/100

• Jancis Robinson: 16/20