Robert Ampeau Meursault AOC 1er Cru 'La Pièce sous le bois' 2002

To say that Robert Ampeau was a colossus of Burgundian winemaking legend would not be an exaggeration, but rather merely a statement of fact. Sadly, Robert passed away in 2004, but has left a legacy and library of wines that continue to delight and astonish palates. Located close to the border of Puligny-Montrachet, just below the forest at the very top of the hill, La Pièce Sous le Bois is one of the highest, steepest vineyards in Meursault, and the last vineyard Robert Ampeau acquired in 1973. It is the largest parcel of the estate, with its 1.6 hectares planted exclusively to chardonnay. Soils are clay and limestone over a limestone bedrock, similar to First Growth vineyards in the middle of the hill, but with distinctly faster draining topsoils, which create lighter, racier wines. Grapes are pneumatically pressed with fermentation and malolactic fermentation taking place in oak barrels, of which 10-25% are new. The wine then spends approximately 10 months in oak with regular bâtonnage. A dazzling melange of crisp apple, wildflower honey, hay, and subtle notes of toasted nuts and earthy mushroom dance elegantly across a palate perfectly balanced between tension and texture. An absolute classic. Sustainably grown.