Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru „Clos du Fonteny“ Monopole AOC 2022

Wine description for the Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru "Clos du Fonteny" Monopole AOC 2022 from Bruno Clair

On the steep slopes of Gevrey-Chambertin, where limestone and marl characterise the soil, the "Clos du Fonteny" is one of those rare parcels that are entirely in one hand as a monopollage. Bruno Clair, whose family has been rooted in the region for generations, cultivates this small, walled vineyard with a dedication that is reflected in every drop of this remarkable 2022 vintage.

Terroir and origin

The "Clos du Fonteny" is located on the eastern edge of the premier cru vineyards of Gevrey, near the village of Brochon. The Monopollage - a rare privilege in heavily parcelled Burgundy - allows Bruno Clair complete control over every aspect of winemaking. The 2022 vintage benefited from a warm summer tempered by night-time cooling - ideal conditions for the delicate Pinot Noir grape, which was able to develop its full complexity here.

Nose

The glass reveals a translucent ruby with garnet-coloured reflections. The nose is immediately captured by a precise fruitiness: wild wild strawberries and black cherries dance with subtle notes of moist forest soil and Dried rose petals. With increasing aeration, mineral nuances emerge that are reminiscent of damp limestone an unmistakable sign of the Gevrey-Chambertin terroir.

Palate

On the palate, the wine shows an impressive structure that combines power with finesse. The silky texture carries flavours of Ripe red berriesunderpinned by a fine spiciness that is reminiscent of Star anise and Cinnamon bark reminiscent. The moderate acidity gives the wine freshness and tension, while the fine-grained tannins framing a long, mineral finish. With its 13% alcohol, the wine retains a remarkable balance and precision - a characteristic of Bruno Clair's restrained vinification philosophy.

Traditional craftsmanship

Clair is one of those winegrowers who intervene little in the cellar in order to preserve the purity of the terroir. The grapes are selectively harvested by hand, partially destemmed and fermented in open wooden vats. The subsequent ageing in French oak barrels (around 30% new) gives the wine structure without masking the fruit - a balance that few winemakers have mastered as well as Bruno Clair.

Food pairing suggestions

This Premier Cru calls for dishes that respect its complexity. Roast quail with morels, a classic boeuf bourguignon or a matured Époisses form congenial companions. The wine will continue to gain depth over the next 10-15 years, but its youthful elegance already makes it a remarkable experience.