2009: The weather was ideal for growing ripe grapes!
After a long, cold winter, proper spring weather set in during the month of April with above-average temperatures that enabled the vines to grow vigorously. The warm, dry, sunny weather that occurred in the latter half of May led to quick, even flowering in the early-ripening plots (close to the dates in 2003), while flowering in the later-ripening plots was more spread out and uneven further to a significant drop in temperature in early June. However, sunshine remained above average!
The weather was mostly good in July despite numerous storms that ended up accumulating water in certain plots. The ripening phase took place under perfect conditions. Sunshine and temperatures were above average throughout August and September, interrupted only by a few brief showers that had no adverse effect whatsoever.
At Domaine Jacques Prieur, the harvest began in early September. The weather was ideal (warm and sunny) and there was no need to hurry. The grapes were in perfect condition and picking for each plot could be planned according to the perfect degree of ripeness.
Initial impressions of wines from the 2009 vintage show that they are elegant, attractive, round, silky and full-bodied.
Grape variety: 100% Chardonnay on a 0.13 hectare plot
Located on the top of the slope, facing due east with meagre, stony soil and white marl outcrops
Whole bunches of grapes were handpicked into small crates and pressed in a pneumatic winepress. The juice was cold settled after pressing for 12-14 hours under temperature-controlled conditions. Alcoholic fermentation and ageing took place entirely in oak barrels. 100% malolactic fermentation
Duration of barrel ageing: 22 months
Tasted in October 2011
COLOUR: Deep, brilliant greenish-gold.
NOSE: Brioche, sugared almonds, and gunflint, developing preserved lemon aromas.
PALATE: Powerful, vivacious, and vibrant. Toasty and spicy with thirst-quenching minerality on the finish.
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