After a cold and snowy winter, spring was relatively grey with rainy skies and very little sunshine - ideal conditions for mildew and the worst conditions for flowering which, in the event, was late.
By the end of May there was a delay in the growth cycle of almost 15 days versus an average year but good fortune finally was at hand with a very sunny summer which allowed the grapes to mature properly. The limited rain in September served as a catalyst for the grapes to reach full maturity and gain a little flesh. Thus quantities in 2013 are up a little on the historically small harvest of 2012.
Harvest at Domaine Labruyère started on 1st October under excellent conditions, cold and dry, with grapes coming in healthy and ripe. There has not been such a late harvest in the past two decades.
Unique Monopole of the Appellation, this 2.3 acres (0,92 hectares) vineyard is perfectly located down the windmill, symbol of the Cru.
Based on a dry, hard, granitic soil, this unique terroir produces outstanding Gamay offering structured, mineral, long-lasting wines as iconic as the greatest French wines.
Grape variety: 100% Gamay
Planting density: 4 000 vines per acre / 10 000 vines per hectare
Average age of vines: 70 years
Harvest: Grapes are harvested manually in 15 kg crates before passing on a double sorting table and 100% destemmed.
The fermentation takes place in a single concrete vat, in order to isolate the parcel and to express the unique characteristics of its terroir.
The entire system is thermo-regulated. Wine is aged in oak barrels (10% new oak) for 15 months. Slight filtration and no fining.
(Tasted on 24th March 2015)
Appearance: Beautiful and intense dark red colour with violet reflections.
Nose: Pronounced floral notes (rose and violet), reminiscent of menthol, liquorice and black fruits.
Palate: Dense and elegant with spicy notes and a touch of minerality, a terroir mark. Structured and complex with embracing and digestible tannins. Persistent and ample finish distinguished by its great finesse.
Ageing Potential: more than 15 years.
Your pdf has been send with success.