The 2020 Bouchard Père & Fils Beaune Premier Cru Grèves Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus is one of Burgundy’s most iconic Premier Cru Pinot Noirs and the flagship red wine of Bouchard Père & Fils. Produced from the estate’s historic 3.92-hectare monopole in the heart of the Grèves Premier Cru vineyard, this exceptional site has been owned exclusively by Bouchard since 1791 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest Premier Cru vineyards in Burgundy. The name Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus dates back to the 17th century, when a Carmelite nun is said to have foretold the birth of King Louis XIV. The outstanding 2020 vintage produced a wine of remarkable concentration, precision and harmony, offering a magnificent balance between power and elegance.
The nose is intensely aromatic and beautifully layered, revealing aromas of black cherry, ripe blackberry and wild raspberry alongside rose petal, violet and sweet baking spices. As the wine opens, notes of sandalwood, cedar and forest floor emerge, complemented by hints of black tea, truffle, graphite and crushed limestone. The aromatic profile is rich and expressive, combining the generosity of the 2020 vintage with the floral perfume and savoury complexity that define this legendary vineyard.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with silky, finely sculpted tannins and exceptional concentration. Layers of black cherry, blackberry and dark plum unfold seamlessly across the palate, supported by subtle spice, earthy complexity and a finely etched mineral backbone. The warmth of the 2020 growing season contributes impressive depth and richness, while vibrant acidity maintains freshness and remarkable precision. The tannins are polished and beautifully integrated, creating a luxurious texture that leads to an exceptionally long, persistent finish marked by lingering notes of dark fruits, sous-bois, spice and crushed stone. The style is authoritative yet graceful, delivering the depth and longevity that have made Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus one of Burgundy’s benchmark Premier Cru wines.
Ben’s Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the finest Premier Cru Pinot Noirs available and an exceptional alternative to many Grand Cru bottlings. Compared to the more opulent 2018 vintage, the 2020 Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus offers greater freshness, precision and structural definition while retaining remarkable richness and concentration. It consistently performs at a level comparable to Grand Cru wines from many producers, making it one of Burgundy’s outstanding collector’s wines. While already captivating with 2–3 hours of decanting, this is ultimately a wine built for the long term. 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.
