Olivier Leflaive Meursault 2023 75cl.

The 100% Chardonnay grapes from selected plots throughout the Meursault area are manually picked in small perforated boxes to preserve the integrity of the fruit and prevent oxidation. The whole bunches are fed directly into the pneumatic press. Slow and progressive pressing is applied to extract a clean must without bitter tannins. Next, the must undergoes a débourbage (static cold decantation) for 12 to 24 hours to decant the heavier lees.

The decanted must is transferred to French oak barrels where it undergoes spontaneous alcoholic fermentation with native yeasts. Subsequently, it completes 100% malolactic fermentation, transforming malic acid into lactic acid to gain softness, body and stability.

The wine rests for 12 months in French oak barrels, of which between 15% and 20% are new. During the first months of aging, bâtonnage (methodical stirring of the fine lees) is applied, a fundamental process in Meursault to develop its famous buttery aromas, notes of dried fruits and glyceric texture. After a year in wood, the wine is removed from the barrels and transferred to stainless steel tanks for an additional 4 months. This final cold phase without wood allows the batches from the different plots to be assembled, integrate the oak and refresh the acid tension. It is finished with a light clarification, gentle filtration and bottling by gravity.