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 Clos des Cortons Faiveley is the only Grand Cru to bear the name of its owner. After a long legal battle, led by Georges Faiveley, this appellation was confirmed by the Court of Appeal in 1937.
Total Surface Area: 3ha 01a
Exposition: East, South-East
Soil: Ferruginous Oolites and Marls
Domaine Faiveley surface area: 3ha 01a – (7.44 acres)
Years the vines were planted: 1936, 1956, 1965, 1967, 1971, 1977, 1980, 1981, 1987, 2002
Average annual production: 15,800 bottles
The hand picked harvest goes through a short prefermentary maceration first, before being vinified in part in wooden tronconic vats. After the three-Faiveley vatting period, they use a vertical press to obtain very pure high-quality juice. The wine is then matured in oak barrels for 16-18 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.
The spring was extremely dry – which gave the grapes thick skins and protected them from disease – while the summer was unusually rainy. Water stress was succeeded by water excess and so that led to a very early harvest without excessive maturity; characteristics of 2007 mixed with those of 2010. The red wines have a dark ruby colour, a high concentration, well balanced and the tannins are soft and ripe. We have a beautiful structure, flavours are fresh and spicy. Elegant notes of fresh fig are typical of 2011.
A rather intense black colour. The nose is powerful, concentrated, fruity and woody. The attack is strong and tannic. The tannins are firm, but well incorporated by the smoothness. This is a fine wine for cellaring.
Game, Mature Cheeses
Serve at 14°-16°C
Côte-de-Beaune, Grand Cru
100% Pinot Noir
Cork