2015

Grand Cru Bougros Domaine

AOC Chablis Grand Cru Bougros, Bourgogne, Chablis, France

The vintage

The beginning of the year was marked by a mild winter, followed by a cold spell in February and early March. Budburst occurred as early as 12 April, encouraged by the first spring warmth, although the period remained unstable with alternating summer-like temperatures and frosts until the end of May. From 2 June, heat settled in permanently: flowering began quickly and progressed evenly thanks to optimal conditions. Summer was hot and dry, with a significant rainfall deficit in June and July, causing water stress, particularly for young vines. A few welcome showers appeared in mid-August, followed by a hailstorm on 31 August that affected yields without compromising sanitary quality. September was cooler than usual, which favoured grape ripening. Harvesting started on 3 September with the parcels hit by hail, then continued with grapes of exceptional quality.

Location

The appellation covers 12.62 hectares at the western end of the Grands Crus terroir, at an altitude ranging from 130 to 170 meters, with a southwest orientation. The wines of this appellation always exhibit a very rich and smooth mouthfeel.

Terroir

Rather deep soil of marl and clay, deeper than in "Côte Bouguerots." The plot covers 6.23 hectares, representing 49% of the total appellation, including 4.12 hectares in Bougros.

Winemaking

Application of the principle of gravity to avoid any pumping, which could alter the quality of the wine. Short-duration pneumatic pressing (1.5 to 2 hours) for a delicate separation between the solid and liquid parts of the grapes. Fermentation carried out in stainless steel vats, followed by 19 months of aging in French oak barrels for 30% of the batch, including 6 months on fine lees. The aging process finishes in small stainless steel tanks.