Premier Cru Montée de Tonnerre Domaine
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
An appellation of 43 hectares on the right bank of the Serein, extending from the Grands Crus Les Clos and Blanchot. With a geological structure similar to the Grands Crus and a very good exposure, this terroir ranks among the greatest of the Premiers Crus.
Terroir
With a soil composed of white stones, low in gravel and shallow, similar to the Grands Crus, and a beautiful exposure, this terroir is among the best of the Premier Crus. Our plots cover 2.24 hectares oriented southeast, south, and west, located in the lieux-dits Pied d’Aloue, Chapelot, and Côte de Bréchain.
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 19 months, including 5 to 6 months on fine lees in French oak barrels for 35% of the blend. The aging process finishes in small stainless steel tanks.
Grapes
Tasting
Complex bouquet with floral and fruity aromas and intense mineral notes.
Robust palate in its youth, evolving towards subtlety and elegance after a few years.
