Bonneau du Martray Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru

Wine Information
Bonneau du Martray’s Corton-Charlemagne is a difficult wine to describe. This is particularly true when it is young. It can take a decade before it will say something more than “Stony. Wait.” But even with age, it does not bloom in the same manner as the Montrachets do. In a way, it tastes like theoretical astronomy: we know that black matter exists. We can sense it, but we have no manifest proof of it. It’s a very beautiful agony.

Size: 9.5 ha (23.5 ac)

Variety: Chardonnay

Vine Age: Planted from 1949-2007; 50 years average vine age in 2016

Terroir: 15 contiguous west-facing parcels in En Charlemagne and Le Charlemagne. There is almost no clay in the topsoil which is made of silt and sand, it lays over white marl. Up to 30% grade.

Viticulture: Certified organic (Ecocert) biodynamic

Vinification: Alcoholic fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Lee-stirring as needed. Aging initially in oak barrels (30% new), racking to tank with fine lees over winter.