Les Heritiers Saint Genys Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020: A Distinguished Expression of Burgundy
Introduction
Les Heritiers Saint Genys Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020 is a remarkable white Burgundy that showcases the unique terroir of the Clos Marcilly vineyard, a monopole (single-owner) site in the Mercurey appellation. This wine is a shining example of Premier Cru Chardonnay, offering a harmonious blend of elegance, complexity, and minerality. Crafted with precision and care, this 2020 vintage is a testament to the exceptional quality of Chardonnay from Burgundy’s esteemed Mercurey region.
Vineyard and Terroir
The Clos Marcilly vineyard is a prestigious monopole owned exclusively by Les Heritiers Saint Genys. Located in the heart of Mercurey, this Premier Cru site is known for its limestone-rich soils and favorable microclimate, both of which contribute to the wine’s distinct character. The vineyard’s south-facing exposure allows for optimal ripening of the Chardonnay grapes, resulting in a wine with vibrant acidity, concentrated fruit flavors, and a pronounced minerality.
Winemaking Philosophy
At Les Heritiers Saint Genys, the winemaking philosophy is centered on minimal intervention and a deep respect for the vineyard’s terroir. The grapes for the Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020 are hand-harvested at peak ripeness and gently pressed to extract the purest juice. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, with a careful balance of new and neutral oak to add complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
The wine is aged on its lees for several months, with regular bâtonnage (stirring of the lees) to enhance its texture and depth. The result is a Chardonnay that beautifully expresses the unique qualities of the Clos Marcilly vineyard, offering a wine of great finesse and elegance.
Tasting Notes Les Heritiers Saint Genys Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020
•Appearance: The wine exhibits a brilliant pale gold color with subtle green reflections, indicating its freshness and vibrancy.
•Nose: On the nose, the Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020 opens with enticing aromas of ripe citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, along with white peach and green apple. These fruit notes are complemented by delicate floral aromas of white blossom and hints of almond and hazelnut, as well as a subtle touch of vanilla and oak.
•Palate: The palate is crisp and well-structured, with a lively acidity that balances the wine’s rich fruit flavors. Citrus and orchard fruits dominate the palate, accompanied by a pronounced minerality that reflects the limestone-rich soils of the vineyard. The wine’s texture is creamy yet precise, with a long, elegant finish that lingers with notes of citrus zest, toasted nuts, and a hint of flint.
•Finish: The finish is long and refined, with lingering flavors of fresh citrus, a touch of oak, and a persistent mineral edge that leaves a lasting impression of purity and sophistication.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Les Heritiers Saint Genys Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020 is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it an excellent choice for both casual and gourmet dining experiences:
•Seafood: The wine’s vibrant acidity and minerality make it an ideal match for seafood dishes such as grilled prawns, pan-seared scallops, or a classic seafood risotto. It also pairs beautifully with oysters, enhancing their natural brininess.
•Poultry: The wine’s richness and complexity complement poultry dishes such as roasted chicken, turkey, or a creamy chicken and mushroom pie. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, creating a balanced and harmonious pairing.
•Vegetarian Dishes: The wine’s freshness and minerality make it a great companion for vegetarian dishes like a goat cheese tart, a quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette, or a roasted vegetable medley with herbs.
•Cheese: The wine pairs excellently with soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or a triple-cream cheese, as well as harder cheeses like aged Comté or Gruyère.
Serving and Cellaring
To fully appreciate the nuances of Les Heritiers Saint Genys Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020, it is best served at a temperature of 10-12°C (50-54°F). This allows the wine’s aromas and flavors to fully develop without being overshadowed by the chill.
While this wine is delightful to enjoy in its youth, it also has the potential to age gracefully for 5 to 10 years. With time, the wine will develop additional layers of complexity, offering an even richer and more rewarding tasting experience. Proper cellaring in a cool, dark place will ensure that the wine continues to evolve beautifully over time.
Conclusion
Les Heritiers Saint Genys Clos Marcilly Monopole Mercurey 1er Cru Blanc 2020 is a stunning example of Premier Cru white Burgundy. With its vibrant acidity, layered fruit flavors, and pronounced minerality, it is a wine that beautifully expresses the unique terroir of the Clos Marcilly vineyard. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a gourmet meal, this exceptional Chardonnay is sure to impress wine lovers and connoisseurs alike.
