Grand Cru Valmur Domaine
The vintage
After a mild and wet winter, we observed an historically early bud break mid-March. It was followed by a very cold, dry, and windy period at the end of March, with frosty nights, which fortunately didn’t impact our vineyards. This episode was followed by high temperatures, particularly in April, which accelerated vine growth. In the later-ripening areas, flowering finished around May 28-30. After a wet June, July turned very dry with two heatwaves at the end of July and the beginning of August, causing sunburn on the most exposed grape clusters. The alternation of heat and light rain in early August accelerated ripening, allowing harvest to begin on August 25.
Location
Appellation of 10,5 hectares in the midst of the Grands Crus. It forms a valley adjacent to that of Vaudésir, with its tip connecting to Les Clos. Its terroir is divided into two sections, on either side of the chemin de la fontaine Sainte Vaubourg. Its shape resembles that of a small valley, which is where the name Valmur comes from.
Terroir
The clay-limestone soils are deeper and brown at the bottom, whereas at the top they are lean and white. At the summit of Valmur, the marly vein outcrops. A plot of 1.15 hectares, representing 9% of the total appellation, is exposed to the south/southeast.
Winemaking
Application of the principle of gravity to avoid any pumping, which could alter the quality of the wine. Short-duration pneumatic pressing (1.5 to 2 hours) for a delicate separation between the solid and liquid parts of the grapes. 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 40% of the blend. The aging process finishes in small stainless steel tanks.
Tasting
Charming bouquet with surprising fruitiness and a good mineral presence.
The powerful and robust palate is elegant and round.
Grapes
Chardonnay
: 100 %