Domaine Leflaive : Meursault 1er cru "Sous le Dos d'Ane" 2017

A Vibrant and Long-Lived Top Chardonnay by Domaine Leflaive

Domaine Leflaive has been deeply rooted in Burgundy viticulture since the early 1700's. With the help of four generations of dedicated owners, it is considered a benchmark for white Burgundy wines today. In 1920, Joseph Leflaive established the domaine after inheriting plots in Puligny-Montrachet and purchasing excellent plots that were being sold in the aftermath of phylloxera epidemic. Joseph worked to replant those vineyards with phylloxera-resistant rootstock and grafted exclusively Chardonnay vines suitable for each parcel.

In 1990, Anne-Claude Leflaive’s first business as co-director of the domaine was to restore the health of the vines. Through her research of microbial activity and experimentation of biodynamics in the vineyards, Domaine Leflaive became a pioneer and leader in this modern technique in the area. Anne-Claude’s commitment and respect for terroir and nature elevated the domaine to a higher standard creating quality and expressive wines.

Meursault Premier Cru vineyards are located within the Meursault appellation of the Cote de Beaune. The Premier Cru vineyards are located on south and southeast facing slopes with limestone rich soils, which allow for exceptional drainage and afternoon sunshine during growing season. The Meursault Premier Cru wines are made entirely from Chardonnay grapes.

The Domaine Leflaive Meursault 1er Cru Sous Le Dos d’Ane 2017 is an expressive, round and long-lived wine. It is fermented and matured for 12 months in oak casks, 22 percent of which is new. It is aged an additional six months in tank before bottling. Bursting with notes of flowers, green apple and pear, the wine is lively and aromatic upon opening. The palate is medium-bodied with a round and fruit-forward backbone. It is vibrant, acidic and plump, with a hint of salinity and minerality from the exceptional terroir.