Domaine Chevrot Le Bois de Clémentine 2007 Tasting Notes

Maranges rouge Le Bois de Clémentine 2005
Hautes Côtes de Beaune blanc 2005

2005 is being heralded as an exceptional vintage throughout France, and in Burgundy it is that rare thing – a vintage that is equally good across all Burgundy grape varieties. The winter of 2005 seemed endless and unseasonably low temperatures continued until the end of March.  It took until May before ‘normal’ temperatures were experienced and then, capow!  June heralded the hottest, driest two months since 1976, which scorched vines whose roots did not reach the aquifers.  Then, frustratingly, August saw a dive in temperature and record rainfall with devastating gales in some areas.  Thanks to Clémentine’s bois, our vines were well protected and when the warm sun returned in September, the grapes were bountifully ripened to perfection.  The resulting wine, our exclusive Maranges rouge Le Bois de Clémentine, has a bouquet of toast and blackberries followed with a richness of fruit on the palate, reinforced by the gentle tannins produced by 16 months’ maturation in French oak barrels.  You could still be enjoying this wine in 2015, but try it now with veal or pheasant now – you’ll be glad you didn’t wait!

Matured partly in oak barrels and partly in stainless steel cuves, our Hautes Côtes de Beaune blanc 2005 expresses a beautiful synthesis between fruit and structure.  With aromas of toast and alluring oak and buttery, peach and citrus flavours on the palate, this is the Chardonnay grape at its refreshing best.  With cheese, terrines de poissons and brioches it surely has few equals.  No rush to drink up either, as this wine will continue to please for at least another five years – if you can resist the urge.