The 2022 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. Widely regarded as one of the greatest Premier Cru vineyards in Burgundy, Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus consistently produces wines that rival Grand Cru quality in both complexity and longevity. The 2022 vintage is considered one of the estate’s finest recent releases, combining remarkable fruit intensity with superb balance and ageing potential.
The nose is intensely aromatic and beautifully layered, revealing aromas of blackberry, black cherry and ripe plum alongside peony, rose petals and sweet baking spices. As the wine opens, notes of cedar, sandalwood and fresh leather emerge, complemented by hints of truffle, graphite, black tea and crushed limestone. The aromatic profile is generous and expressive, balancing the richness of the 2022 vintage with exceptional freshness and the refined floral character that has made Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus one of Beaune’s most celebrated vineyards.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with extraordinary concentration, silky tannins and remarkable harmony. Layers of black cherry, blackberry and dark raspberry unfold effortlessly across the palate, supported by subtle spice, earthy complexity and a finely etched limestone backbone. The warmth of the 2022 vintage provides luxurious texture and impressive depth, while vibrant acidity maintains freshness and precision throughout. The tannins are exceptionally fine and beautifully integrated, leading to an extraordinarily long, persistent finish marked by lingering notes of dark fruits, fresh leather, spice and crushed stone. The style is powerful yet graceful, combining the generosity of Beaune with a level of refinement that approaches Grand Cru stature. Critics have praised the 2022 for its remarkable harmony, silky texture and exceptional ageing potential.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the finest Premier Cru Pinot Noirs produced in Burgundy and an outstanding choice for collectors seeking Grand Cru quality without Grand Cru pricing. Compared to many Premier Crus from the Côte de Beaune, Vigne de l’Enfant Jésus delivers significantly greater concentration, structure and longevity, often outperforming Grand Cru wines from lesser vineyards. The outstanding 2022 vintage combines remarkable fruit purity with exceptional balance, making it approachable with extended decanting while possessing the pedigree to evolve beautifully for decades. Drink from 2028 onwards or cellar confidently through to 2055 and beyond. Perfect with roast pigeon, duck breast, venison, beef Wellington, wild mushrooms, truffle-infused dishes or the finest French cuisine.
