Meursault 1er Cru Les Genevrières 2018, Domaine Mestre-Michelot

This domaine is owned and run by Jean-François Mestre who assumed control of the vineyards and winemaking at the 22 ha Domaine Michelot in 1993. Mestre, who is married to one of Bernard Michelot’s four daughters, has spent the last twenty years raising the profile of this domaine which is now widely regarded as one of the finest in the Meursault appellation. He is now joined in the business by his son, Nicolai, whose endearing, light hearted personality combines with a fierce desire to experiment and push the boundaries. The wines benefit from extended contact with the lees and regular bâttonage, which contributes to their rich and expressive character. Up to 25% new oak is used with a growing emphasis on 500lt barrels. To enhance the wines’ vivacity, after 12 months the cuvées are assembled into temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks where they complete their maturation over the next 6 months. The estate’s entire production now appears under the Domaine Mestre-Michelot label. Domaine Michelot’s vineyard practices aim at maintaining a balanced natural environment. The aim is to encourage the vine’s natural resistance mechanisms. They regularly plough the soils and apply compost as opposed to chemical fertilizers. Grass is planted between all the rows to absorb water, thereby creating a condition of mild hydric stress for the wines. This condition serves 3 purposes: it encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, enhancing the wine’s complexity; it makes for healthier grapes while concentrating their sugar and flavors; and it creates an environment in which vine maladies caused by moisture are naturally prevented. Read Less