Hailing from the oldest and most revered section of Moulin-à-Vent, the historic Grand Cru site of “Thorins” once stood shoulder to shoulder with Burgundy’s greatest wines, like Pommard, Gevrey-Chambertin, Meursault-Charmes, and Bâtard-Montrachet. With the 21st-century acquisition of historic Domaine de la Tour du Bief (est. 1644), Edouard Parinet is aiming to revive that coveted status. Our partnership with him allowed us exclusive access to the newest 2019 release, plus a very small amount of this 2013 library release. 

Even at eight years old, this 2013 shows youthful exuberance and lift but make no mistake: This is a world away from the ’19 in measure of style and texture. Because of a later harvest and maturation in French barrels (10% new), it is a decidedly darker, firmer, and more brooding Gamay with smoky tannins, punchy acidity, and iron-like minerality that draws heavy comparison to Gevrey-Chambertin. It would be a fascinating study to track this bottle over two days because I found it releasing more nuances with each half-hour. It is a Grand Vin in every way, one that will blow past its 10th birthday with ease. Up to six bottles per person. Enjoy.