Chateau de Marsannay Marsannay Clos de Jeu 2018

The Château de Marsannay is one of two original estates located in the heart of a very old winegrowing region, in the northernmost village in the Côte de Nuits of Burgundy. Before any other domaines existed, Château de Marsannay came to be known for delectable wines treasured on a local and global scale. Château de Marsannay owns 40 hectares of organic vineyards, including 28 of the best terroirs of the Marsannay appelation and some of the most famous plots of Côte de Nuits. Château de Marsannay is environmentally engaged to preserve biodivesity and reduce its carbon footprint.

In the 16th century, the original château was destroyed by the Swiss army during the reign of French King Louis XII; the current one was rebuilt in the same location. The château's caves--spread over two levels and 30 feet deep--are modeled on the ancient Cistercian cellars of the Château de Meursault.

During a turnover in ownership in 2012 by the Halley family, Marsannay underwent a restoration of the vineyards and cellars. Now, it's being revived in a new, fresh way while also preserving the distinctive history and nature of the vineyard. This vineyard consists of a mere 1.79 acres with soils comprised of stony clay and limestone. This wine reveals a rich texture that explodes with black cherry and blackberry fruit and light flashes of earth and spice. Made in an open-knit style with great balance and moderate length. Aged for 12 months in new oak barrels (33%) as well as in barrels of one or two years, preceded by a soft must pressing and then for four months in a tank.