Domaine Francoise & Denis Clair Santenay 1er Cru Clos de Tavannes 2021

The estate was founded in 1986 with 5 hectares of Pinot Noir in Santenay, where Denis’ family had long been vignerons for generations but sold most of their production to négociants. Over time Denis and Francoise acquired parcels of Chardonnay in the villages of Saint-Aubin and Puligny-Montrachet. The total area cultivated now is around 15 hectares and since 2000, their son Jean-Baptiste has worked on the estate, gradually taking on more responsibility, and gaining plaudits for the increased refinement and precision of the wines. 

55 y/o average vines on 0.76 hectares with clay and limestone soil and oriented south. One of the most beautiful terroirs of Santenay in the extension of Gravières and on the border with prestigious Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru Morgeot. Organic farming without use of herbicides nor insecticides.

Hand harvested and sorted; the grapes arrive in small crates at the winery where they are 100% destemmed. Cold maceration in concrete vats (less than 10°C). When the temperature rises, alcoholic fermentation begins; the color and fruit are extracted by pumping over and light punching down. After 3 weeks the wine is placed in barrels including 20% new oak for 12 months and then blended in stainless steel vats and bottled after a light filtration after 18 months.

Notes: 

Most complete Santenay Premier Cru, the nose shows aromas of ripe red fruits mingle with spices and roasted notes. Palate is powerful, fruity, it has a certain minerality which tightens the wine in the end. Aging potential: 8-10 years. 4,000 bottles Produced.