Albert Bichot : Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er cru Monopole Château Gris 2020

A fresh and elegant Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru

The estate

Although the history of the Bichot family dates back to 1214, the family only settled in Burgungy in 1350. The trading house was created in Monthélie in 1831, under the impetus of Bernard Bichot, and grew rapidly during the 19th century, thus becoming the official supplier to the Royal Swedish Court. An independent, family-owned business, Albert Bichot is one of the fine names that has left its mark on the wine industry and the influence of Burgundy wines around the world. Since 1996, the family’s 6th generation has been running the company, harmoniously blending modernity with family tradition.

Today, the Albert Bichot family owns more than 100 hectares of vines that spread from the north to the south of Burgundy and are grouped under 6 prestigious estates: Domaine Long-Depaquit, located in Chablis, in the Yonne, Domaine du Clos-Frantin and Château Gris, both located in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine du Pavillon, in Pommard. Dedicated to the production of Mercurey wines, Domaine Adélie was acquired by Albert Bichot in 2013. The estate is named after the first name of Albert Bichot's daughter, who was born in 2003, thus perpetuating the family legacy from one generation to another. The beautiful vineyard of Domaine de Rochegrès in the Moulin À Vent appellation joined the family business in 2014.

The vineyard

Built in the 18th century, Château-Gris is situated in the middle of a 3.5-hectare vineyard. While tiles are predominant in Burgundy, the roof was covered with grey slate following the destruction of the vines by Phylloxera. The name Château-Gris was then given by the local inhabitants.

Albert Bichot's 1er Cru Monopole Château Gris 2020 is a Nuits-Saint-Georges wine stems from a 2.80-hectare plot originally planted in an area known as Les Crots, which was renamed "Château-Gris" following the court’s decision in the 1920s.

The vineyard resting at the bottom of the château is 35 years old on average and is rooted on 280-metre-high terraces composed of clay-limestone soils.

Vinification and ageing

The grapes are harvested by hand and vinified in temperature-controlled cone-shaped oak vats. Vatting time is 3 weeks on average.

The wine is aged in oak barrels (25% of which are new) for 12 to 15 months.

The blend

Pinot Noir (100%).

Albert Bichot’s Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Monopole Château Gris 2020: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

Fresh and elegant, the nose harmoniously blends fragrances of black fruit with subtle floral notes.

Palate

The palate is seductive with its woody notes and fruity expression that weaves into a beautifully fresh finish.

Food and wine pairing

This Burgundy red wine will pair with red meats, dishes served with a sauce, marinated game and strong cheeses.

Service

For an optimal tasting, serve at 16-17°C.

Cellaring

Albert Bichot's Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Monopole Château Gris 2020 can be cellared until at least 2027 which will enable it to express its full range of aromas.