Domaine Leflaive : Rully 1er cru 2017

A Bright and Bold Chardonnay by Domaine Leflaive

Domaine Leflaive is known for their benchmark styles of white Burgundy and pioneering role in biodynamics in the region. Today, Domaine Leflaive encompasses 44 hectares across Burgundy. With over 24 acres in Puligny-Montrachet, the domaine has about 5 hectares of Grand Cru and 11 hectares of Premier Cru plots. Additionally, the estate has around 20 hectares in Macon Verze and Solutré-Pouilly in the Maconnais. In the 1990s, Anne-Claude Leflaive spearheaded the conversion of Domaine Leflaive vineyards to biodynamic farming after analyzing the microbial activity in the soil. Her dedication to and respect for the intricate practices of biodynamics allowed for the vines and soil to thrive. By 1997 the entire estate was converted to all biodynamic farming, and today many wineries look to Anne-Claude’s work as inspiration for their own land.

The Rully appellation is located in the northern part of the Cote Chalonnaise sub region. The Premier Cru vineyards are located on the southeastern slopes of the Montagne de la Folie, with limestone-rich soils. The vines here ripen with increased exposure to the sun’s rays and have prime water drainage due to their location on the slopes of the mountain.

Spring of 2017 was extremely mild in Burgundy allowing for the vines to grow fast and flower early at the end of May. A hot and dry summer allowed for the grapes to mature evenly and fully before harvest in August. This vintage was highly anticipated after a tough 2016 with frosts that destroyed a large part of harvest.

The

Domaine Leflaive Rully 1er Cru 2017, made from 100 percent Chardonnay, is lively bright and charming. Bursting with notes of blossom, honeysuckle and lemon on the nose, this wine is equally as exciting on the palate. It is bold and rounded with flavors of lemon peel, peaches and a flinty finish. With a few years in the cellar this wine will evolve with notes of honey and apricot for a delicious layered taste.