Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge 2022 Domaine Larue
Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge 2022 Domaine Larue is an oenological gem rooted in the terroir of the southern part of the appellation. Situated at an altitude of 220 meters, the vineyards overlook to the east on deep clay-limestone soil. This ancient, fine, and light earth hosts Pinot Noir vines planted between 1941 and 1976, with a density of 10,000 vines per hectare across a 1.5-hectare surface.
In the vineyard, meticulous attention is given to vine care. Pruning follows the Cordon de Royat style, with springtime shoot thinning. The soil is lightly plowed, with a third of the surface left as grass. Disease control during summer employs a balanced approach, with manual leaf-thinning in July to ensure optimal sunlight exposure and aeration for the grape clusters.
In the cellar, after careful assessment of ripeness, grapes are hand-harvested and brought in small perforated crates. They undergo thorough sorting on a vibrating table to eliminate impurities before being transferred to a conveyor belt, where four to six individuals manually remove unsuitable grapes. Some grapes undergo partial destemming, with 20-30% of whole clusters possibly included in the cuvée.
The grapes then undergo cold maceration for three to five days before alcoholic fermentation begins in vats. Punching down of the cap occurs three times a day during active fermentation. Afterward, the wine goes through a period of refinement, with daily tastings. After fifteen to twenty days, the marc solids are pressed off, and the free-run juices are transferred to oak barrels, 30% of which are renewed annually.
Following 12 months of aging on fine lees, the wine is blended in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for an additional six months of aging. Light fining precedes bottling. The result is a wine with a clear, intense, and deep color, boasting fresh red fruit aromas with delicate integrated oak notes.
On the palate, it is characterized by initial silkiness, with present yet delicate tannins and a powerful body. The finish is decisive and persistent. This cuvée yields approximately 5500 bottles.
Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge from Domaine Larue is enjoyable when young but reaches its peak after 3-10 years of aging. It is best served at a temperature between 12°C and 15°C, ideally paired with a dish like coq au vin.
DENOMINATION: Chassagne-Montrachet AOC
REGION: Burgundy (France)
GRAPES: 100% Pinot Noir