2019 Arbois Grand Curoulet Chardonnay

Domaine du Pélican purchased this parcel in 2012 from Jean-Marc Brignot. Prior to Brignot, it was owned by Robert Aviet, a well-known name in Arbois. Grand Curoulet is considered one of the very best terroirs of Arbois. It is a north-facing parcel located on the side of a hill that dominates Arbois and the Saône plain. Grand Curoulet is known to be where the first vines of Arbois were planted. The recently replanted Chardonnay vines are located at the top of the parcel. Grey marl soils are particularly important in shaping the character of this wine. The grapes are lightly crushed before being pressed to ease juice extraction, and fermentation is in foudres and barrels. Ageing is in 500-litre barrels with no new oak. Just one racking before bottling at the end of July 2020. This has the salty aroma of the straight Chardonnay plus more fresh and stony citrus with a touch of green fruits and herbs. Crisp but rounded and just a little creamy in the mouth, great tension and freshness. Light on its feet but with underlying power. Tightly coiled and with enormous persistence. (JH)