Olivier Merlin is widely regarded as being one of the very finest winemakers in the Mâconnais. He and his wife Corinne began in 1987 by renting 4.5 hectares. from René Gaillard, of Domaine du Vieux Saint-Sorlin, who wished to retire. Since then, Olivier has been buying the property in stages as well as adding new vineyards such as St Véran (in 1994 and ‘96). In September ‘97 Olivier took out a négociant's licence in order to be able to make some Pouilly Fuissé, since land in this appellation is neither available to buy nor to rent.

A stellar Bourgogne rouge from Maconnais, southern Burgundy! Very nice structure in the mouth with velvety and silky tannins. Light and refreshing, this is a red with depth and spiced nuance, lifted by a piercing acidity. "Pale red with a transparent array of mushrooms, red cherries, earth and orange zest. Some nutmeg. Tasty and lightly spicy with a medium body and soft, powdery tannins. Pinot noir. Drink now." Rating: 90 Points; James Suckling