Joseph Cartron – Marc de Bourgogne Trés Vieux 8 Ans (8 years) 70 cl. 42%

Marc de Bourgogne 8ans 42% is a brandy from Joseph Cartron in Nuits-Saint-Georges, made from the pomace of fresh grapes, in this case, Chardonnay. The difference between Joseph Cartron and many other liqueur and spirit producers lies in the amount of fruit that goes into each bottle. Unfortunately, for many larger producers, the flavor is created chemically or partially chemically, meaning the amount of fresh fruit is close to zero. This is fortunately not the case for the small family-owned company from Burgundy. When making liqueurs and eaux-de-vie, an incredible amount of fruit is used—more fruit means more flavor—so there is always an abundance of fruit in Joseph Cartron’s products. The taste is intense, with classic notes of brandy made from pomace, which is the French version of grappa, aged for at least 8 years. The alcohol is very well-integrated, making it a delightful eau-de-vie that absolutely deserves to be tasted, preferably slightly chilled. Enjoy it from a tulip-shaped glass.

Some companies in Burgundy may boast of being larger or more widely promoted than Joseph Cartron, but Cartron, founded in 1882, is undoubtedly one of the most recognized for its quality. The secret behind their excellent fruit liqueurs and fruit brandies (eaux-de-vie) primarily lies in the selection of the raw fruit’s quality. A blackcurrant, a raspberry, a pear, or a plum used for distilling or maceration must be perfect in ripeness and health. Here, even the slightest flaw can ruin everything. As with wine, the quality of a fruit liqueur or eau-de-vie does not start in the cellar but in the fields during cultivation. In Burgundy, Cartron has fantastic access to fruits from the slopes above the Grand Cru vineyards or the Hautes Côtes in the hinterland. Other ingredients are sourced from elsewhere in France or more exotic locations worldwide. Each product undergoes its own distillation according to a recipe that has been used for generations. If there are any changes, they are only made to improve the product.