Vignoble des Cabottes Meursault Les Clous 2023

Vignoble des Cabottes is one of Burgundy’s newest domaines, created by Artémis Domaines to preserve and give greater focus to a 35-hectare collection of historic vineyards formerly belonging to Bouchard Père & Fils. Meursault Les Clous comes from 2.64 hectares of the 18.4-hectare lieu-dit high on the slopes above the village, between Les Tillets and Les Vireuils and north of the Premier Crus Bouchères and Gouttes d’Or. The elevation and calcareous marl over a hard rocky base help retain freshness and mineral tension in a naturally generous site. The vineyards are farmed organically, with certification in progress, under Frédéric Weber, who has long worked with these parcels. This is also the first vintage released under the Cabottes name, making it the starting point for a new chapter in these historic vineyards.

Made from 100% Chardonnay, the grapes are hand harvested and gently pressed before fermentation in 225-litre oak barrels, 30% of which are new. The wine is then given further élevage in stainless steel, allowing the oak to contribute texture without obscuring the character of Les Clous. The 2023 has an appealing combination of ripe citrus, lemon zest, white peach and pear with acacia, fine reduction, crushed stone and a subtle buttery note. There is more density on the palate than the restrained nose initially suggests, with juicy acidity, fine phenolic grip and a distinctly mineral finish. It is already harmonious but has the structure to develop further over the next several years, gaining hazelnut and dried-fruit complexity. Excellent with sole meunière, turbot, scallops, roast chicken, creamy mushroom dishes or mature Comté.