Hospices de Beaune wines, first time in India
For the first time ever, Hospices de Beaune, the famous wine charity from Burgundy is showcasing its wines to potential clients, wine enthusiasts and collectors in India, says Reva K Singh. In association with Sommelier India, Hospice de Beaune will conduct masterclasses at the Four Seasons in Mumbai and Leela Hotel, Gurgaon this February. Anthony Hanson, himself, Burgundy expert and senior consultant, Christie's International Wine Department, will guide us through the Tastings.
This historic auction has been arranged annually since 1851 and organized by Christie's since 2005. In 2009, the charity saw a record 799 barrels for sale which were bid by 500 participants, 40% of which were bids by telephone, internet and fax from around the world.
With the support of Roland Masse, the winemaker of the Hospices de Beaune, a superb collection of wines is being presented for the Masterclass or guided tasting and a different selection of wines but of an equally high order will accompany the specially chosen three course dinners.
It's possible the increased interest generated in these extraordinary wines may encourage Indian wine lovers to actively participate in future auctions.
As Sanjay Menon, who has played a key role in bringing these wines to India, noted, "This is a unique opportunity and great learning about the complex but wonderful world of Burgundy wines from one of the Masters."
Useful background on the subject can be had from two consecutive articles by Priyanka Dhar in Sommelier India, December 2011-January 2012 and Vol 7, Issue 1, 2012.
List of Wines for the Masterclass
REDS
Savigny-lès-Beaune 1er Cru, Cuvée Arthur Girard 2009
Auxey-Duresses 1er Cru, Cuvée Boillot 2009
Beaune 1er Cru, Cuvée Dames Hospitalières 2009
Volnay 1er Cru, Cuvée Blondeau 2007
Pommard-Epenots 1er Cru, Cuvée Dom Goblet 2007
Beaune 1er Cru Cuvée Nicolas Rolin 2005
Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Cuvée Georges Kritter 2005
Corton Grand Cru, Cuvée Charlotte Dumay 2008
Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru, Cuvée Madeleine Collignon 2005
WHITES
Pouilly-Fuissé, Cuvée Françoise Poisard 2008
Meursault-Charmes 1er Cru Cuvée Albert Grivault 2007
Corton-Charlem
