Bretaudeau Domaine de Bellevue 'Statera' Pinot Noir 2023

Bretaudeau Domaine de Bellevue “Statera” Pinot Noir 2023 is a rare, single‑parcel Loire Pinot Noir (Vin de France) that aims for grand‑cru‑level finesse, with silkiness, precision and long, fragrant length.

Critic tasting note: (2023 vintage)

"A zippy, succulent and racy pinot noir. On the nose it offers notes of cranberries, dried sage, wildflowers, crushed stones and some smoke. It’s medium-bodied with silky tannins and bright acidity. Vivid and transparent, with gentle cranberry character balancing the mineral frame in harmony. Delicious finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink now." - James Suckling

Terroir and viticulture

Statera is 100% Pinot Noir from a granitic terroir with pink and white quartz in the western Loire, classified as IGP Val de Loire / Vin de France. The domaine is certified organic and biodynamic (Biodyvin), with low yields, hand harvesting and meticulous vineyard work to maximize purity and energy.

Winemaking

Grapes are fully destemmed, then fermented with indigenous yeasts; maceration/infusion lasts about 12 days to extract gently and preserve finesse rather than power. The wine is aged 10–14 months in older oak barrels, with no new wood, highlighting fruit, florals and minerality rather than oak spice.

Tasting profile (2023)

Descriptions of Statera show a bright ruby color. The nose is highly aromatic and delicate, marked by wild strawberries, cranberries and red cherries, lifted by violets, rose petals, peony and fine herbal notes. On the palate it is silky and elegant, light to medium‑bodied with precise red fruit, lively but fine acidity, very soft tannins and impressive persistence for its weight, finishing long on red berries, flowers and a subtle mineral trace.

Character and food pairing

Commentators compare Statera’s quality and refinement to top Côte de Nuits Pinot, while retaining a distinctly Loire freshness and drinkability. It is very food‑friendly: ideal with roast chicken, duck, game birds, pork, charcuterie and earthy vegetable dishes where its red‑fruit purity and floral elegance can shine without being overpowered.