Winemaking is a labour of love anywhere in the world, but particularly in Burgundy where every vintage provides its own unique challenges. Independent family wine Maison Albert Bichot is more than up to the demanding task though – the company was founded in Beaune in 1831 & now owns more than 100 hectares of vineyard in the region. The passion of the sixth-generation owners is matched by that of winemaker Cyrille Jacquelin, who first joined in 1996 & now specialises in making exceptional Pinot Noir. He harvests grapes for Secret de Famille strictly from the prestigious Côte d’ Or, with villages such as Chambolle-Musigny, Nuits-Saint-Georges & Marsannay represented in the blend. The finished result is a balanced & velvety wine with good structure & perfumed fruit aromas of blackcurrant & red berries. Try it with roasted meats or mild cheeses.