Recently elevated to a premier cru, some believe this vineyard produces the finest white wine in Pernand Vergelesses.
2017 thankfully brought a large crop after the frost-affected 2016 vintage which cut yields by more than half, particularly in the whites. Despite the cold winter, there was an abrupt change in March when temperatures rose, sparking budburst and the inevitable threat of April frost damage. Preventative measures limited any significant damage. Flowering in May was successful under near-perfect conditions. Summer had a fine mixture of sun and rain and the grapes raced to maturity with harvest beginning for us on the 2nd of September with the final parcel, Corton Charlemagne, being harvested on September 10th. Sugars were good, generally in the mid 12.5% range and acidities well balanced. We employed a balance of remontage and pigeage for the first time in order to better manage extraction for the reds. For the whites, fermentation began in tank and moved to barrel after a couple of days of progress. Décuvage occurred almost 21 days after harvest and the fermentation temperatures behaved as expected. Malos for the whites were quick and done by Christmas and the reds finished by mid-May. The wines have ended up balanced and charming for the reds, with the whites classics – expressive with tension and long finishes. Yields were just over 40 hl/ha for the reds and 45 hl/ha for the whites. The reds remind us of 2000 and the whites of 2004.
Even though it is partially hidden by the Hill of Corton, its southern exposure allows this terroir to receive plenty of afternoon sun.
High on the hill, overlooking the village, the steep slopes of this vineyard have white marl and limestone soil. Our tiny vineyard compromises only 0.13 hectares on vines that average 30 years old.
Ideally served at about 12 C/ 54 F, this lovely wine pairs ideally with lighter appetizers, including frog legs, quiche, grilled vegetables, or fish courses which are delicately seasoned as well as a wide range of poultry dishes and rabbit.
