Julien Guillot Marc De Bourgogne 2004 (750ml)

Julien Guillot Marc de Bourgogne 2004 offers a slightly brighter and more energetic expression than the older 1998 bottling while still carrying the earthy, deeply Burgundian character that makes Julien Guillot’s spirits so distinctive. Produced from distilled grape pomace and aged patiently for years, it bridges the worlds of fine wine and traditional eau-de-vie in a way very few spirits do.

The nose shows lifted aromas of dried cherry, red plum, orange zest, crushed herbs, walnut, black tea, spice, and forest floor, alongside subtle notes of cedar and cocoa. Compared to older Marc bottlings, the 2004 tends to feel a little fresher and more vibrant, with the fruit remaining especially expressive.

On the palate, it’s structured yet supple, unfolding with flavors of roasted nuts, dried red fruit, tobacco leaf, baking spice, and earthy grape-skin character layered over gentle oak and mineral tension. The spirit retains a slightly rustic edge that feels intentional and authentic rather than polished away.

There’s a strong sense of origin here. The vinous quality of the distillate and the savory complexity from the pomace make this feel unmistakably tied to Burgundy rather than to the sweeter, softer style many drinkers associate with brandy.

This is an especially compelling bottle for Burgundy lovers, natural wine drinkers, and anyone interested in old-school European spirits with a real sense of place.