Olivier Leflaive : Corton Grand cru "Clos du Roi" 2023

The elegance and structure of a great Burgundy grand cru by Olivier Leflaive

The estate

Descending from a long line of winegrowers dating back to the 17th century, the Olivier Leflaive house was officially founded in 1984 in Puligny-Montrachet, at the heart of Burgundy. Representing the eighteenth generation, Olivier Leflaive envisioned a unique hybrid model combining a haute couture merchant activity with a 26-hectare estate of its own, certified Haute Valeur Environnementale level 3. Today, the estate is directed by Jean Soubeyrand, while technical management has been overseen by Solène Panigai since 2022. The estate is renowned for its constant pursuit of precision, freshness and minerality.

The vineyard

Located in the commune of Aloxe-Corton, the Clos du Roi terroir lies on the upper part of the famous hillside, sheltered from the wind by the Bois de Corton. Facing south-southeast and east, this plot benefits from a unique microclimate. The vines flourish on Bathonian-era soils, composed of marl and limestone particularly rich in iron, lending the wine its distinctive structure and minerality.

The vintage

2023 proved to be a particularly challenging year, marked by historically high temperatures and a notable water deficit during the growing season. These extreme conditions led to significant disease pressure, especially from mildew. However, the abundance of the harvest allowed for an extremely rigorous selection process, ensuring only the healthiest and perfectly ripe berries were retained.

Winemaking and aging

Following entirely hand-picked harvesting and meticulous sorting on a table, the Corton Grand Cru "Clos du Roi" 2023 is vinified with whole-bunch grapes, without destemming. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in open vats over sixteen days. The wine then undergoes a total aging period of sixteen months, beginning with four months in stainless steel tanks to preserve its primary aromas, followed by twelve months in French oak barrels, 25% of which are new.

Grape variety

Pinot Noir (100%).

Characteristics and tasting notes for the Corton Grand Cru "Clos du Roi" 2023 by Olivier Leflaive

Tasting notes

Colour
The colour reveals a deep ruby hue.

Nose
Rich and seductive, the nose exudes generous aromas of candied fruit harmoniously blended with delicate violet floral notes.

Palate
Juicy and expressive, the palate reveals delicious notes of bigarreau cherry. With a fine structure and a full-bodied texture, this generous and well-balanced wine brilliantly combines character with finesse.

Serving and storage

For optimal tasting, it is recommended to serve this wine at a temperature between 17 and 19°C. This wine, built for aging, can be left to mature in the cellar and will be at its best between approximately 2028 and 2040.

Food and wine pairing

This great red wine will pair wonderfully with grilled duck breast fillet accompanied by a red wine and chocolate sauce. It will also beautifully complement game meats such as wild boar or venison, as well as mushroom or truffle-based dishes.