Bonneau du Martray Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru 1999

In a region renowned for producing some of the greatest wines in the world, Bonneau du Martray is one of only a few estates in all of Burgundy to produce solely Grand Cru wines. For over twelve centuries, this family-run estate remains a true rarity as the single largest holding in the extraordinary white wine appellation of Corton-Charlemagne. In 1994, Jean-Charles le Bault de la Morinière left his career in architecture to manage his family’s 11 ha property. His attention to detail and pursuit of perfection has helped to grow the estate’s already exceptional reputation. Its vineyards lie on the choicest hillside terroir along a contiguous block stretching between En Charlemagne and reaching towards Aloxe-Corton. The domaine’s 9.5 hectares of Charlemagne are planted high on the hillside, where the soil contains more clay than limestone and is more suitable for white grapes. The average age of the vines is around 45 years and yields are kept very low. The domaine is unique in its west and southwest-facing orientation, which guarantees long, slow maturation of the grapes. Unlike his father, Jean-Charles follows a hands-off approach to viticulture and winemaking that includes organic and biodynamic farming practices. In the vineyard, Jean-Charles has improved drainage and terracing, reduced compaction of the soil and plans to plant new sélection massale cuttings in order to preserve the patrimony of his vines for future generations. Herbicides and fertilizers are never used, and all grapes are picked manually.