Clos de Tart, one of the six Grand Cru Monopoles in Burgundy, possesses an extraordinary 900-year legacy that traces back to its establishment in 1141.
For 900 years, Clos de Tart has been a singular estate, remaining intact and undivided. In 1855, Clos de Tart was awarded the status of Tete de Cuvee in Doctor Lavalle’s classification of Cote d’Or, a prestigious category that was more exclusive than the current Grand Cru classification. In 1932, the Burgundy wine merchant Henri Mommessin acquired Clos de Tart at auction. The Mommessin family retained sole ownership until 2018, when the Pinault family, owners of several historic estates including Chateau Latour and Domaine d’Eugenie, took over.
Located in Morey St Denis, Clos de Tart spans 7.53 ha and is renowned for its diverse terroir. It is indeed the largest Grand Cru Monopole in Burgundy. The vineyard is planted with top-quality Pinot Noir vines, commonly referred to as Pinot Fins, which are selected from the finest plants. The average age of the vines is around 60 years, with some exceeding 100 years. These fine vines are planted on the clay-limestone soil, comprised of various types of limestone that create well-defined microclimates. Additionally, the vines benefit from excellent sun exposure, allowing them to achieve optimal ripeness while remaining less susceptible to summer heat stress. Beginning in 2016, biodynamic practices were introduced on the estate, earning Biodyvin certification in 2019.
In terms of winemaking, the estate varies the proportion of whole bunches used in winemaking based on the different microclimates. The grapes are vinified separately in wooden vats of varying capacities, with alcoholic fermentation carried out using 100% wild yeast. The wines are then placed in barrels for approximately 18 months: the first 9 months are spent aging the batches individually, followed by another 9 months during which the wines are blended and continue to age.
The renowned Clos de Tart Grand Cru Monopole captures the essence of its old vines, most of which average around 60 years in age. In the nose, it veiled in strawberry, wild berry, rose petal, violet, clove, spices, herbs and earthiness. In the palate, it is robust and charming with ripe tannin, pleasant acidity and long finish, showcasing great ageing potential. On the nose, it reveals aromas of strawberry, wild berry, rose petal, violet, clove, spices, herbs, and earthy notes. On the palate, it is robust and charming, featuring ripe tannins, pleasant acidity, and a long finish that showcases its great aging potential. Additionally, the estate produces La Forge de Tart Premier Cru and Morey St Denis village wines, crafted from the younger vines within Clos de Tart.