Château Gris, Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru, Monopole, Burgundy, France, 2021

Producer Profile

Château-Gris is one of Albert Bichot’s most distinctive estates: an 18th-century château surrounded by a small 2.5-hectare walled vineyard above the village of Nuits-Saint-Georges.

Château-Gris is not only the name of the estate, but also a rare monopole vineyard neighbouring the prestigious Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Crus of Les Pruliers and Les Roncières. The estate takes its name from the château’s grey slate roof, an unusual feature in Burgundy, where coloured glazed tiles traditionally dominate the landscape. Its vineyard is equally distinctive. Terraced vineyards are rare in Burgundy, and Château-Gris rises to around 280 metres on a steep, east-facing slope. Pinot Noir is planted around the château, while Chardonnay is planted at higher elevation. The vines average more than 40 years of age. The combination of altitude, slope and clay-limestone soils produces a refined expression of Nuits-Saint-Georges, characterised by freshness, finesse and elegance. The estate is certified organic, with its wines carrying organic certification from the 2018 vintage.

Viticulture

Château-Gris is a unique 6.30-hectare monopole vineyard located on the south-western slopes of Nuits-Saint-Georges within an historic walled clos. The 35 to 40-year-old Pinot Noir vines are planted on terraced slopes between 260 and 330 metres above sea level, rooted in calcareous clay soils. This elevated, hillside terroir promotes excellent ripening while preserving freshness and aromatic complexity.

Winemaking

The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted upon arrival at the winery to ensure only the finest fruit is selected. Fermentative maceration takes place in temperature-controlled wooden vats for 18 to 21 days, allowing gentle extraction of colour, flavour and tannin. This meticulous approach produces a wine of elegance, depth and balance. The wine is matured in French oak barrels for 16 to 17 months, with 35% to 40% new oak. Extended barrel ageing enhances texture, complexity and structure while integrating subtle oak nuances into the wine's rich fruit profile.

Tasting Note

Refined and beautifully expressive, this Nuits-Saint-Georges Premier Cru combines aromas of raspberry, strawberry and blackcurrant with delicate floral notes of rose, violet and peony, framed by a touch of oak. The palate is smooth and generously fruited, supported by polished tannins and impressive structure. Elegant and distinguished, it finishes with freshness, length and remarkable poise.

Food matching

Outstanding with beef Wellington, roast venison, duck with cherries and mature Époisses or Comté cheese.