A heritage selection of Chardonnay matured in “diamond” vats for 10 months (this horizontal, egg-shaped vat ensures that the lees spontaneously circulate). A pure expression of Chardonnay with aromas of white fruits.
A heritage selection of Chardonnay matured in “diamond” vats for 10 months (this horizontal, egg-shaped vat ensures that the lees spontaneously circulate). A pure expression of Chardonnay with aromas of white fruits.
Geography & Terroir
A plot called “En Tappe”, exposed to the rising sun in the Val de Vallière steephead valley in Montaigu. Silty clay soils. Excellent soil for Chardonnay in this plot planted by the Carthusian monks as early as the 13th century.
Cultivation Techniques
Biodynamic vineyard, inspected and certified by Demeter France since 2003: we use horn manure (500P), silica (501) and herbal tea treatments. These techniques preserve the indigenous yeasts which contribute to the authenticity and purity of the wines. Our grapes are all picked by hand, sorted in the vineyard and rapidly transported to our cellars in small crates to avoid crushing the grapes, meaning that we only need use very little S02 during vinification.
Grape Variety
A heritage strain of Chardonnay resulting from our massal selection work, known as “Gamay Blanc” around Lons-le-Saunier. High density, 10,000 vines per hectare (4,000 per acre), short pruning (using the Guyot Poussard method), average yield of 30Hl/Ha (or 2 tons per acre).
Vinification
Slow pressing; fermentation and ageing in “diamond” vats for 10 months. This horizontal ovoid tank benefits from micro-oxygenation through the porous concrete walls, which are a mixture of gravel, sand and chlorine-free water. In this giant egg, the lees are continuously lifted by an internal current, called Brownian motion. The horizontal position creates significant contact between the lees and the wine; the natural circulation of the wine promotes the homogeneous suspension of the lees.
No added yeast, no chaptalisation, nor any oenological additives. Sealed within the vat, the wine retains its purity.
Bottled on a “flower” day according to the lunar calendar and sealed with natural fire-branded corks.
Characteristics of the Vintage
The early harvest was superb and generous. The clayey marls retained humidity and freshness in the soils, whilst the hot and dry summer guaranteed beautiful ripe fruits, meaning no SO2 needed to be added.
Alcohol: 15%
Total SO2: 45mg/L
Harvested on 21/09/2018
Tasting Notes
Pale gold colour, nose evoking all the finesse and elegance of Chardonnay. Full and fruity palate, of great purity.
Taste slightly chilled (10-12°C) as an aperitif or at the start of a meal.
