This Burgundian domaine has been a family estate for nearly 200 years. Erwan Faiveley, 7th generation, took the reins in 2006 from his father when he was only 25. They have earned their reputation as one of Burgundy’s finest and most trusted, with an unparalleled selection from the Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune and Côte Chalonnaise totalling over 120 hectares.
The legend goes that all the hillside in Corton was once planted with red grapes. This plot belonged to the Emperor Charlemagne who delighted in the produce of his vines. Unfortunately, the wine would run down his long beard, leaving bright red stains. His wife, wanting to uphold royal dignity, complained to her husband about his love of wine. To keep the peace in his household, Charlemagne had his vines ripped out and had white grapes replanted. In future, he could satisfy his love of Corton, without spoiling his snowy-white beard and without suffering his wife’s reproaches.
Total Surface Area: 71ha
Exposition: South, South-West
Soil: Grey Marls
Domaine Faiveley surface area: 0ha 61a – (1.52 acres)
Years the vines were planted: 1961, 1988
Average annual production: 3,200 bottles
The hand picked harvest is transported with care to the cellars in Nuits-Saint-Georges. The wine is then vinified and matured in oak barrels for 14-16 months, in nineteenth century vaulted cellars which provide ideal conditions for raising wines. The proportion of new oak, which is susceptible to variations according to the vintage, represents on average two thirds of the cuvée. The barrels, which come from high-quality barrel makers, have been rigorously selected for their fine grain and light toast.
Spring was predictable with slight precipitation in March and the summer was relatively wet. Especially memorable was a hailstorm in mid-June that reduced yields by 15%. The harvest was early but without excessive maturity, which indicates a very good vintage. The wines reveal a great potential in their youth. The alcohol levels were kept deliberately low on the whites (less than 13°C) and are now showing to have very balanced frank, clear and pure characters.
The nose reveals woody, fruity and floral notes and will be even more complex with a few years of patience. This wine is concentrated, with fine balance and very long lasting flavours on the palate. For its generous aromas, it is possible to start to enjoy this grand cru now, but it will reach its full potential and reveal all its character after a few years in the cellar.
Shellfish, Fish, Salmon with Sorrel
Serve at 10°C. Cellaring Potential: 8 to 12 years
Côte de Beaune, Grand Cru
100% Chardonnay
Cork