Erni Loosen's New Winemaking Project in Burgundy
The renowned German winemaker sees his lifelong dream come true.
Internationally acclaimed winemaker Erni Loosen is embarking on a remarkable new journey with the launch of Perron de Mypont, his latest winemaking project that marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career. As a passionate collector of Pinot Noir from various regions, Erni has envisioned creating exceptional wines in Burgundy, the variety's historic origin, and now that vision is set to become a reality.
"I fell in love with Burgundy about 50 years ago, during a winemaking internship there," stated Erni. His admiration for the region has only deepened over the years, inspired by the complex relationship between Riesling and Pinot Noir. Both varietals thrive in cool-climate conditions and produce outstanding wines that mature beautifully with time. After decades of cultivating his dream, Erni is now ready to unveil his very own creation in this celebrated wine-producing area.
Perron de Mypont is located at the historic Vieux Château de Puligny-Montrachet, a charming village nestled in the Côte d'Or region of Burgundy. In 2019, Erni took a significant step forward by acquiring a portion of the 15th-century château and has since been diligently restoring the property while establishing connections with local growers and producers. This initiative aims to create a collection of wines that meet his high standards for quality and longevity.
Collaboration for Quality Wine
Joining Erni on this exciting venture is Manoël Bouchet, a long-time colleague with profound expertise in Burgundy and a shared passion for winemaking. This partnership is rooted in a commitment to honor the cultural heritage and traditions of Burgundy, merging time-tested methods with contemporary practices to produce wines that are both authentic and exceptional in quality.
The essence of true Burgundy wine, according to Erni and Mano, lies in its harmony, minerality, and refinement. Their approach cleverly combines the traditional Négociant model with a Parcellaire strategy, which allows them to work closely with specific growers and vineyard parcels. They offer their wines in two distinct tiers: Maison Perron de Mypont and Edition Perron de Mypont.
The Maison Tier
The Maison tier features wines sourced through the classic Burgundy Négociant system, highlighting exceptional value while maintaining high quality. This tier showcases carefully curated blends of grapes from various growers to keep prices accessible. Initial wines available include Bourgogne AOC Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the 2022 vintage.
The Edition Tier
For the more exclusive Edition tier, which consists of Villages and Premier Cru appellations, Erni and Manoël emphasize excellence by collaborating closely with growers. This careful attention enables them to produce wines that genuinely reflect the unique terroir of Burgundy. Maturing these wines in the cellars of local growers adds to their distinct character and enhances the quality of each offering. Initial offerings from this tier include 2022 Meursault, 2023 Gevrey-Chambertin, 2023 Volnay, 2022 Meursault Premier Cru Perrières, 2019 Vougeot Premier Cru, and 2022 Vosne-Romanée Premier Cru Les Suchots.
The Heritage Behind Perron de Mypont
The history of the de Mypont family adds a rich narrative to Perron de Mypont. For nearly four centuries, they were lords of the village of Puligny until their property was taken by Philippe the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, in 1388. In 1448, the title passed to Jean Perron, a Beaune lawyer, who founded the Vieux Château. Completing its construction in 1530, the venue has a deep-rooted legacy within the community, establishing a foundation for the region as we know it today.
About Erni Loosen
"A great wine begins in your head," is the guiding principle of Ernst "Erni" Loosen, who has led the historic Dr. Loosen estate in Germany for over 37 years. Under his skilled leadership, the estate has emerged as one of the top producers globally. His passion for winemaking extends beyond Germany, with ventures including the Appassionata Estate in Oregon and collaborations in various regions, showcasing his commitment to quality and innovation.
About Manoël Bouchet
Manoël Bouchet's journey in the wine industry spans 25 years, during which he has gained invaluable experience working with notable Burgundy cooperages. His expertise has contributed to advancements in winemaking techniques, including barrel design. Furthermore, he has played active roles in various Burgundy organizations, enhancing his influence and understanding of the region's wine heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Perron de Mypont?
Perron de Mypont is a new winemaking project launched by Erni Loosen in Burgundy, focusing on high-quality wines true to the region's heritage.
Who is Erni Loosen?
Erni Loosen is a renowned German winemaker and owner of the Dr. Loosen estate, known for producing world-class wines and his innovative projects globally.
What types of wines are offered by Perron de Mypont?
Perron de Mypont offers wines in two tiers: Maison, which includes regional wines, and Edition, featuring more limited and premium wines.
How did Perron de Mypont come into existence?
The project emerged from Erni's dream to create wines in Burgundy, complemented by his acquisition of a historic château and collaboration with esteemed local growers.
What is the focus of Erni Loosen's winemaking philosophy?
Erni Loosen blends traditional winemaking methods with modern practices, aiming for balance, finesse, and a true expression of terroir in his wines.
