Premier Cru Montmains
The vintage
The summer-like temperatures caused an early budbreak during the week of March 29, leaving fragile buds exposed. The black frost nights from April 6 onward burned new buds each day. Between April 3 and April 24, temperatures dropped below zero on 17 nights. Despite the implementation of protective measures (sprinkling, candles, and heating cables), the vineyard was severely affected by the frost and struggled to resume growth. A rise in temperatures in June helped make up for the delay. Mid-June flowering was rapid, and growth was vigorous, although the vines were not very fruitful. Prolonged summer rains, along with the effects of the frost, slowed down the ripening of the grapes. Harvesting began on September 17, a reasonable date compared to previous rather early vintages.
Location
Appellation of 118 hectares on the left bank of the Serein, on very well-oriented lands but very sensitive to frost. The Premier Cru Montmains has a distinct typicity linked to its very stony terroir, which gives the wine very pronounced mineral aromas, with extraordinary power and excellent aging potential.
Terroir
Fairly deep soils over an airy Kimmeridgian subsoil, with a mix of marl and clays. The plots, oriented southeast, are located in the lieux-dits Montmains, Butteaux and Forêt, and are very representative of this Premier Cru.
Winemaking
Application of the principle of gravity to avoid any pumping, which could alter the quality of the wine. Short-duration pneumatic pressing (1h30 to 2h00) for a delicate separation between the solid and liquid parts of the grapes. Very light static settling to retain enough fine lees for the alcoholic and malolactic fermentations to occur naturally. The vinifications are carried out in stainless steel vats. Aging lasts 18 months, including 5 to 6 months on fine lees in French oak barrels for 30% of the blend. The aging process finishes in small stainless steel tanks.
Tasting
Structured, nervy and mineral wine with good length on the palate. Very precise and fresh, it shows exemplary concentration.
Grapes
Chardonnay
: 100 %