Presentation
An up-and-coming village. Located in the northernmost part of the Côte de Nuits, not as well known as its neighbours further to the south, Marsannay is the village that is definitely on the rise. Some big name growers – in particular a few renowned ones from Gevrey-Chambertin– have vines there that thrive in its highly diverse terroirs. Marsannay represents excellent value for the money for the Côte de Nuits and several of its climats are candidates for Premier Cru ranking, which confirms the entire appellation’s potential for quality.
Terroir
The Les Crais plot is located in the heart of the Marsannay appellation, above the village, at the mouth of the Combe du Pré, which descends from the village of Corcelles-les-Monts. It features an east-southeast-facing slope on a very stony soil composed of limestone scree, from which it derives its name. This soil is perfectly suited to Chardonnay, imparting a notable minerality and producing a unique white wine, which remains a rarity in the Côte de Nuits.
Winemaking
The grapes are harvested by hand and gently pressed. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in
barrels (fine-grained French oak from Central France forests) including 30% new oak and lasts 15 days. During the first ten days of the fermentation phase, light stirrings of the lees were carried out. Barrel ageing on fine lees lasted 9 months.
Specifications
Production volume : 2,960 BOTTLES
Ingredients & nutrition ›
Tasting
Magnificent pale yellow robe, luminous and radiant. The first nose opens with delicate floral and fruity notes (rose, fresh quince), before unveiling indulgent pastry aromas (egg custard, French toast, brioche), subtly balanced by a hint of menthol. On the palate, the wine impresses with its refined elegance and remarkable balance. Ample and beautifully ripe, it reveals a lovely salinity and a silky attack while maintaining tension and slight firmness, adding depth and character. A fine smoky touch underscores its strong personality, while a subtle bitterness on the finish enhances its complexity. A great wine from the Côte de Nuits, best decanted in its youth to fully appreciate its richness.
Reviews
Tim Atkin