Le Champ des Etoiles

Chai winemaker Mark Hoddy had a mission – to produce the best Pinot Noir outside Burgundy. He first made this wine in 2008 and it was a star then, but every year since he's worked to make it even more irresistible. Pinot Noir isn't the easiest grape to grow – it's most particular about its soil and even more about its climate. It likes a spot where the fruit only just ripens so the wine is elegant. You wouldn’t think that true of anywhere in southern France, but Mark knows just the place, high up and tended by a fastidious grower. There, warm days are followed by cool nights that slow ripening of the grapes and ensure excellent aroma and freshness. Gently fermented, this is a charming red, great with chicken, duck or mushroom risotto.