The 2016 Bouchard Père & Fils Beaune Premier Cru Grèves Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus Magnum (1500ml) is one of Burgundy’s most historic and iconic Premier Cru Pinot Noirs. Produced from the legendary Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus, a 3.92-hectare monopole owned exclusively by Bouchard Père & Fils, this remarkable vineyard occupies the finest section of the Grèves Premier Cru slope in Beaune. According to local legend, the vineyard takes its name from the miraculous birth of the future King Louis XIV, who was said to have been foretold by a Carmelite nun in Beaune. Widely regarded as one of the greatest Premier Cru vineyards in Burgundy, it regularly produces wines that rival Grand Cru quality. The exceptional 2016 vintage is considered one of Burgundy’s greatest modern vintages, and in magnum format the wine promises extraordinary longevity and graceful evolution.
The nose is intensely perfumed and beautifully complex, revealing aromas of black cherry, wild raspberry and dark plum layered with rose petal, violet and sweet baking spices. As the wine opens, notes of cedar, sandalwood and forest floor emerge, complemented by hints of black tea, truffle, graphite and crushed limestone. After several years of bottle age, subtle tertiary nuances of sous-bois and dried flowers begin to appear, adding remarkable depth while preserving the wine’s vibrant fruit and floral character.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with velvety tannins, exceptional concentration and remarkable balance. Layers of black cherry, blackberry and wild berry fruits unfold seamlessly across the palate, supported by subtle spice, earthy complexity and a finely etched mineral backbone. The outstanding 2016 vintage provides extraordinary freshness and precision alongside impressive depth, while the magnum format allows the wine to mature more slowly, preserving its fruit purity and extending its ageing potential. The finish is exceptionally long, refined and persistent, carrying lingering notes of dark fruits, sous-bois, spice and crushed stone. The style is majestic yet elegant, combining the authority of a Grand Cru with the finesse that has made Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus one of Burgundy’s most celebrated Premier Cru vineyards.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of Burgundy’s greatest Premier Cru wines and a true collector’s bottle. Compared to many Premier Crus from the Côte de Beaune, Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus delivers remarkable depth, structure and longevity, often outperforming Grand Cru wines from lesser sites. The legendary 2016 vintage provides extraordinary balance and ageing potential, while the magnum format elevates the wine even further, allowing it to develop with exceptional grace over the coming decades. Whether purchased for a milestone celebration or serious long-term cellaring, this is a wine that represents the very best of traditional Burgundy. Drink from 2028 onwards or cellar confidently through to 2050 and beyond. Perfect with roast pigeon, duck breast, venison, beef Wellington, wild mushrooms, truffle-infused dishes or the finest French cuisine.
