Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2023: A Vintage Shaped by Nature and Mastery
A Year of Contrast and Character
The 2023 vintage tells a captivating story shaped by nature’s extremes. A dry spring gave way to a summer of dramatic contrasts —stormy bursts intertwined with sweltering heat. These conditions tested the strength and resilience of our beloved vines, but we embraced the challenge. With meticulous attention, we monitored our grapes as they ripened, understanding that timing was paramount. Our hand-harvesting journey began on September 5, as we worked with dedication despite the high temperatures, ensuring our grapes reached their peak ripeness. By September 16, the harvest in Clos Marey-Monge was complete, yielding fruit that struck an ideal balance between sugar and acidity while remaining within our target production range.
Craftsmanship in the Cellar
Upon arrival at the winery, our commitment to excellence continued with a meticulous sorting process, ensuring only the finest grapes made it into the vats. The warm weather in September posed its own set of challenges, requiring our team’s unwavering focus on fermentation management, particularly temperature regulation. Through careful monitoring and precise adjustments, we were able to maintain a seamless fermentation process.
The fermentation of our Clos Marey-Monge cuvée took place in stainless steel tanks, where we skillfully preserved a portion of whole-cluster grapes. Using a vertical press, we minimized pomace crushing, enhancing the wine’s purity and vibrancy. This exceptional cuvée then matured in oak barrels, where it developed structure and complexity—while we judiciously managed the proportion of new barrels to capture and showcase the true essence of our terroir.
A Wine That Captivates
Once in the glass, the Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2023 entices with its striking ruby color, delicately enhanced by hints of purple. The aromas unfold in layers of candied black fruits and elegant floral notes, creating an inviting and intricate bouquet. On the palate, the wine reveals a generous yet refined character, with velvety tannins providing a lush texture. Vibrant red fruits dance beautifully on the finish, delivering remarkable length and depth. With the potential to age gracefully for at least 20 years, this wine will continue to evolve, rewarding those who appreciate its journey to heightened complexity. Certified biodynamic by Demeter and organic, it is a testament to our steadfast commitment to showcasing the authentic character of our terroir while honoring nature’s gifts.
A Vintage to Celebrate
With an impressive rating of 90-92 points from Vinous (Neal Martin), our Clos Marey-Monge Monopole truly shines. “Clos Marey-Monge Monopole is a selection of the best cuvées, so the blend changes each year. It offers black cherry and raspberry fruit on the nose, with touches of the iris flower—quite delicate and refined for the vintage. There is a nice ‘bite’ on the finish. I can see this wine benefitting from time in the cellar, but it will only require a couple of years in the bottle.”
Our Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2023 stands as a tribute to over a year of passionate dedication, artfully balancing the challenges of nature with our craftsmanship. We excitedly invite you to experience this remarkable expression, savor its evolution, and share the story that each bottle holds. Cheers to exceptional wines and the special memories they create!
