Gifted
TIP
Great news! The phone rings, and it's Alexandre Jouveaux, confirming that Pierre Mang is waiting for us at his cellar. Two years ago, Alexandre tipped us off about Pierre, and we’ve kept in touch ever since. Now, we’re eagerly anticipating the release of his first vintage. We drive with purpose to meet Pierre in person because we believe that if we wish for something hard enough, it will manifest. Magical thinking has always added a touch of romance to our lives.
HOMEWORK
It's love at first sight. Pierre Mang captivates us with his undeniable charisma and magnetic presence. We’ve rarely encountered a winemaker exuding such confidence. He knows how the world functions, and he seems to have it all figured out. We listen intently as we discreetly walk into the vineyard with him. Our thoughts and feelings align; we can sense Pierre’s energy. It's evident that he has found his calling, guided by his mentors. Vineyards grow in value and brilliance because of their history and previous owners. Here, it feels as if inspiration permeates the land. The previous owner’s spirit lingers. We assess the likelihood of partnering with a talented winemaker and determine it’s very high. However, when we share this with Pierre, he prefers to keep quiet, holding off until we taste his creation. So we wait and see—yet we have done our homework.
JEAN-YVES-BIZOT
Pierre Mang is a man who transitioned from a successful finance career to pursue his true passion for wine. His story exudes courage and determination; he recognized the imperative to follow his dream. In 2018, at 34, he traded the bustling streets of Paris for wine studies in Beaune. His journey took him through internships with Jean-Yves Bizot in Vosne-Romanée and then with Philippe Vallette in Mâcon. His bond with Alexandre Jouveaux, who has been a vital resource for contacts, guidance, and morale, underscores their shared language of passion and dedication.
INSTINCTIVE
In the spring of 2019, Pierre seized the opportunity to take over 0.8 hectares of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Mâcon in Plottes, cultivated without chemicals and surrounded by forests, away from neighbors. Despite the exceptional location, he initially hesitated to start his own business. Yet, Valette and Jouveaux urged him not to let this unique opportunity slip away. This decision highlighted his fierce determination and passion for winemaking. The first harvest occurred in 2019, and by strategically adding small rented plots, he now manages 2.5 hectares with ease.
Pierre is both demanding and instinctive, attributes that reflect in his wine. His creations are precise, serious, and deeply expressive, mirroring his winemaking philosophy. His key skill lies in honoring the vineyard and the vintage with utmost transparency. Although production quantities remain small, this is only a matter of time. Until then, we indulge in wines that resonate, telling the compelling story of a young, passionate winemaker who fearlessly followed his heart.
Les Terres Noires 2022
This Chardonnay, sourced from young vines meticulously cultivated in a cool, west-facing parcel of clay, limestone, and marl in the village of Plottes, is a true testament to its extraordinary terroir. The grapes were pressed directly into barrels for an intense two years of elévage, resulting in a pale straw yellow wine that confidently showcases a captivating blend of smoke, citrus, and stones. With its vibrancy and acidity, this wine is set to evolve into a remarkable masterpiece in the years to come.
Le Dessus de Beaufer 2022
Crafted from vines up to eighty years old that are deeply rooted in pure limestone on a slope high in the forest above Tournus, this Chardonnay exemplifies its unique terroir. After an eighteen-month élevage in barrels, it emerges as a pristine, powerful wine with bold layers of citrus, salt, and chalky minerals. This wine is an undeniable reflection of its origin, guaranteed to captivate even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.
Les Voisins 2022
This Chardonnay comes from vines up to sixty years old, planted over clay and limestone in the village of Lugny. After direct pressing into old barrels for one year of élevage, it mirrors the year’s warmth, presenting a slightly more mellow and fuller profile compared to the previous vintage. Expect ripe stone fruits, citrus, and wildflowers to unite beautifully in this exemplary creation.
Le Parc Rouge 2022
This Pinot Noir from young vines flourishing on steep clay and limestone slopes in Plottes is a definitive sensory delight. The grapes were fermented as whole bunches for two weeks before being pressed into old barrels for an eighteen-month élevage. The result is a wine that bursts with aromas of berries, earth, and spice, while a touch of acid and chalky tannins provide a refreshing and intriguing edge. It's a stellar representation of our favorite grape.
