Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières 2020 – Domaine René Monnier

The grapes to produce Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières Domaine René Monnier were meticulously sorted and were gently pressed as whole bunches, followed by static settling of the must before fermentation. Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières Domaine René Monnier vinifies with traditional methods, fermentation takes place in barrel and the wine then matures in oak barrels, of which 25% were new oak, for a period of 14 months. Delicate bâtonnage took place, which imparted texture and complexity. The wine was lightly fined and filtered, before being estate bottled by gravity.

“Les Folatieres” is the largest Premier Cru vineyard in Puligny-Montrachet. This plot is the south-eastern neighbour of Le Montrachet and Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru vineyards and its higher eastern end reaches further up the slopes of Meursault and Saint Aubin. The vineyard, which is east facing, benefits from gentle morning sun, giving the grapes time to develop complexity, while cooler overnight influences bring balancing acidity. “Les Folatieres” originates from a medieval term for the weather phenomenon “St Elmo fire”, it refers to the lights seen in the vineyard from a distance and to this day it is said this light can still be seen occasionally in the vineyard. The vines are grown on a gentle but much eroded slope of chalk and limestone, that absorbs the warmth and reflects it onto the vines encouraging ripening. The lack of water forces the vine to use more mineral-laden hydration deeper in the soil. The Domaine practices “la lutte raisonnée” sustainable agriculture with a reduced use of chemicals.

Domaine Rene Monnier is a leading and sought-after producer situated in the heart of Meursault. With over 18 hectares of vineyard in the most prestigious Crus of the Côte de Beaune, Domaine René Monnier is one of the largest privately-owned domains in the region. Founded in 1723, the domain is now in the hands of the tenth generation, with all the wines being skilfully made by Xavier Monnot. Domaine René Monnier’s white wines are fresh and stylish avoiding excessive use of oak, while the reds are the epitome of fine Burgundy demonstrating the balanced, silky style of this house.