FEATURES
The 1988 vintage for red Burgundy, particularly in the Côte de Nuits, was considered very good to excellent, producing wines of concentration, power, and significant aging potential. Alain Guyard's Fixin Les Chenevieres (Rouge) from this year embodies the classic character of the appellation. Fixin reds are known for their deep purple to deep mid-red color. On the nose, expect a complex bouquet featuring floral notes like violet and peony, intertwined with fruits such as blackcurrant, Morello cherry, and quince. Animal scents, musk, and pepper, along with a distinctive cherry-pit aroma, are also common. While often tannic and a little firm in their youth, with age, these wines develop a rounded attack, a solid structure, remarkable fullness, and a delicate texture. This 1988 vintage, now over three decades old, should offer a beautiful expression of mature Pinot Noir. 【Excellent aging potential and remarkable fullness with age】.
Food Pairing: This masculine yet delicate red Burgundy is a superb partner for robust dishes. Consider good cuts of meat such as braised pork, beef rib steak with parsley, or rich poultry stews, including their Indian variants like curry or tandoori. It can also surprisingly complement more inventive combinations like paella, tapas, or spring rolls. For cheese, hard mountain Gruyère or Comté would be an excellent match.
Event Suggestions: A truly special wine for a milestone anniversary, a sophisticated dinner with fellow wine enthusiasts, or a quiet, reflective evening appreciating the beauty of aged Burgundy. It’s a wine that rewards patience and thoughtful enjoyment.
Serving Advice: As this 1988 vintage is over 35 years old, handle the bottle with care. Old corks and capsules can be fragile, so using a Durand or Ah-So opener is highly recommended to prevent breakage. Decanting is advisable for older red Burgundies to allow any sediment to settle and to let the wine breathe, which helps to unveil its intricate, aged aromas. Serve gently at a cellar temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F).