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CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET
White
Located
in the South of the Côte de Beaune, Chassagne-Montrachet is one of
the famous villages, together
with Meursault and Puligny-Montrachet, making up the prestigious "Côte
des blancs" (the slope of the "whites").
Chardonnay is the unique variety used to produce these white wines.
It is growing on limestone soil mixed with brown clay.
A careful balance between tradition and modern techniques characterizes
Joseph Drouhin vineyard management and vinification : they
have their own nursery. Ploughing and leaf removal are the only methods
used. The whole harvest is picked by hand. The grapes are gently and slowly
pressed. The juice settles down for a few hours and is then placed in oak
barrels. The fermentation starts naturally, with no yeast inoculation.
The malolactic fermentation is always led to its natural completion. The
wine matures in small oak barrels for 9 to 10 months and receives all the
necessary care before bottling. The percentage of new oak varies with the
vintage, never exceeding 40%, so that the oak cannot dominate the fruit.
Chassagne-Montrachet always has a beautiful, limpid, golden hue. On
the nose, there are often delicate nuances of pear, vanilla and almonds
flavours. Round and ample on the palate, the wine has length and complexity.
It is best served with white meat (turkey, veal) or fish in delicate sauces. |