Serafin Père et Fils Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes 2019

Winery Background and History

Domaine Sérafin Père et Fils, founded in 1947 by Stanislas Sérafin, is a family-run estate located in Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy. Stanislas, a Polish immigrant, transitioned from masonry to viticulture, establishing the domaine’s reputation for producing robust and age-worthy wines. His son, Christian Sérafin, took over winemaking duties in the 1960s and officially assumed control in 1988. Under Christian’s guidance, the estate expanded its holdings and solidified its standing among Burgundy’s esteemed producers.

Producer and Winemaker

Christian Sérafin is renowned for his meticulous approach to winemaking, emphasizing low yields and traditional techniques. He employs rigorous vineyard management and favors the use of new oak barrels to enhance the structure and complexity of his wines. Christian’s dedication to quality has garnered acclaim from critics and collectors alike, ensuring that each vintage reflects the unique terroir of Gevrey-Chambertin.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The “Vieilles Vignes” cuvée is sourced from several parcels in Gevrey-Chambertin, with vines averaging 55 to 75 years of age. These old vines, situated near prestigious Grand 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. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in 100% new French oak barrels for approximately 18 months. This approach imparts depth and complexity to the wine while preserving the purity of the Pinot Noir fruit.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 vintage exhibits a deep ruby hue. On the nose, it offers expressive aromas of black cherries, blackberries, and raspberries, complemented by earthy 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 2019 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)

• 13.0%

Scores

• Jasper Morris (Inside Burgundy): 89–92/100