Clos Marey-Monge: A Unique Tapestry of Terroirs

Nestled in the heart of Burgundy's Pommard appellation, Clos Marey-Monge is a remarkable example of the complex interplay between terroir and winemaking.

This historic monopole, the jewel of Château de Pommard, spans 20 hectares and comprises seven distinct vineyard plots, each with its unique soil composition.

The intricate mosaic of terroirs within Clos Marey-Monge allows for the production of exceptional wines that showcase the distinct character of each plot. Here are some of the plots in this, the largest monopole in Burgundy.

Micault: A Delicate Expression of Pinot Noir

The Micault plot, named after Nicolas-Joseph Marey-Micault who first established the vineyard in 1795, is the southernmost plot within Clos Marey-Monge.

Encompassing 2.03 hectares, Micault's soil is characterized by a mix of clay and limestone, providing excellent drainage and aeration for the vines. This plot is home to the youngest Pinot Noir vines in the monopole, which produce delicate, fruit-forward wines with a lively acidity and soft tannins. These wines are often praised for their elegance and approachability.

75 Rangs: A Rich and Powerful Terroir

The 75 Rangs plot, named after the 75 rows of vines planted on this 1.29-hectare parcel, boasts a unique terroir with an abundance of iron-rich clay and limestone. The deep, well-draining soils of 75 Rangs contribute to the production of powerful, structured wines with an impressive concentration of fruit flavors, balanced by a firm tannin backbone.

The wines from this plot are known for their aging potential, developing greater complexity and depth as they mature in the bottle.

Simone: A Lush and Opulent Expression

Nestled at the foot of the Château de Pommard, Simone is a 0.53 hectare plot of remarkable terroir that embodies the soul of our domain. With one of the highest internal surface of clay in Burgundy, her Pinot Noir is delicate and intense.

Planted in 1986, her vines produce a rich, complex, and rare cuvée. It is characterized by a complex mix of limestone, marl, and clay. The soil's high water-holding capacity and abundant mineral content contribute to the production of lush, opulent wines with intense fruit flavors and a velvety texture.

These wines exhibit a remarkable balance between power and finesse, embodying the quintessential Pommard style.

Chantrerie: A Marriage of Power and Elegance

Some of the oldest vines in Clos Marey-Monge, Chantrerie’s 2.41 hectares of marly-clay soils produce a dark, rich and deep Pinot Noir with a sweet palate.

Known as the spirit of our vineyard, this old Lady benefits from one of the largest internal surfaces of clay in the Côte d’Or, worthy of a Grand Cru, just behind Simone’s record.

Émilie: A Terroir of Depth and Concentration

In 2016 a new lady was planted at the furthest eastern point of the vineyard. The composition is a clay-limestone (36% clay) surface with a sandy texture. Stones of rounded gravel and rare pebbles descrease with depth.

Inspired by Émilie Marey-Monge, the historical and industrious lady of Château de Pommard, this sacred ground was previously the backbone of our wines for more than 60 years.

Grands Esprits: A Terroir of Balance and Harmony

The Grands Esprits plot, covering 4.81 hectares, is a testament to the harmonious balance that can be achieved between vine and terroir. This plot features a diverse mix of clay, limestone, and marl soils that provide a fertile environment for grapevines to thrive.

The wines produced from Grands Esprits exhibit a harmonious interplay between fruit, acidity, and tannin structure, resulting in wines that are both approachable and complex. The Pinot Noir grapes from this plot yield wines with expressive fruit flavors and a well-rounded mouthfeel, reflecting the ideal balance that characterizes the Grands Esprits terroir.

Nicolas-Joseph: A Terroir of Depth and Refinement

The Nicolas-Joseph plot, named after Nicolas-Joseph Marey-Monge himself, spans 3 hectares and showcases the depth and refinement that can be achieved in wines from the Pommard appellation.

The soils in this plot consist of a mix of clay, marl, and limestone, contributing to the development of complex flavor profiles and aromatic nuances in the wines produced from this terroir. The Pinot Noir grapes from Nicolas-Joseph yield wines with an impressive depth of flavor and a refined tannin structure, embodying the elegance and sophistication that have become synonymous with the Pommard appellation.

Clos Marey-Monge: A Symphony of Terroirs

The seven distinct vineyard plots within Clos Marey-Monge, each with its unique soil composition and microclimate, come together to create a symphony of terroirs that produces exceptional wines, reflecting the diverse character of the Pommard appellation.

Paul and his team at Château de Pommard masterfully blend the wines from these individual plots, showcasing the harmony and complexity that results from the interplay between terroir, grape variety, and winemaking techniques.

Through their commitment to biodynamic practices and a deep understanding of the land, Château de Pommard continues to craft wines that are a true expression of the rich heritage and extraordinary terroir of Clos Marey-Monge.

If this has made you thirsty for more knowledge, it's probably time to buy some of this splendid stuff. Check out our Clos wines here.

The Role of Soil in Wine Production Across Different Regions

While Burgundy serves as a prime example of the importance of soil in winemaking, this concept applies to wine regions across the globe. In California's Napa Valley, the diverse soils are responsible for producing a wide range of grape varieties, including the famed Cabernet Sauvignon. The Paso Robles region, also in California, boasts calcareous soils that contribute to the production of high-quality wines, including Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc.

In France, the Loire Valley is known for its diverse soils, which give rise to a variety of wine styles, from crisp Sauvignon Blanc to luscious Chenin Blanc.

The Champagne region, famous for its sparkling wines, owes its success to the chalky, limestone-rich soils that provide the perfect conditions for growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. The Beaujolais region, home to light-bodied reds made from Gamay grapes, benefits from the granite and schist soils that add complexity to the wines.

Even in Italy's diverse wine regions, soil plays a critical role. In Tuscany, the diverse soils contribute to the unique character of its famous Sangiovese-based red wines, such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. In the Piedmont region, the calcareous-clay soils are perfect for the cultivation of Nebbiolo grapes, which give rise to the renowned Barolo and Barbaresco wines.

Soil and Grape Variety: A Vital Relationship

The relationship between soil and grape variety is vital to understanding the importance of soils in winemaking. Different grape varieties have unique preferences for soil types, and matching the right variety to the appropriate soil is essential for producing high-quality wines. For example, Pinot Noir thrives in limestone-rich soils, while Cabernet Sauvignon prefers well-draining gravelly soils. Chardonnay, on the other hand, can adapt to a variety of soils but particularly excels in limestone-based soils.

The interaction between soil and grape variety has a significant impact on the final wine produced. Soil composition influences the grapes' acidity, tannin structure, and flavor profile, ultimately affecting the wine's taste, texture, and aging potential. Wine lovers who participate in wine tastings can often detect the influence of soil on the wine's character, appreciating the unique qualities that different soils impart.

Soil's Influence on Wine Styles and Regions

Soil also plays a crucial role in defining wine styles and regions. In Burgundy, for example, the complex soils contribute to the creation of distinct wine styles within the region. The Côte d'Or, with its limestone and clay soils, is known for its elegant, age-worthy Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Top quality Chardonnay your thing? Choose your next bottle here.

By contrast, the Beaujolais region's granite-based soils yield fruity, easy-drinking red wines made from Gamay grapes.

Similarly, the soils in the Napa Valley have a significant impact on the region's wine styles. The diverse soils, ranging from volcanic to alluvial, result in a wide array of wines, including bold Cabernet Sauvignon, lush Chardonnay, and crisp Sauvignon Blanc. In the Champagne region, the chalky, limestone-rich soils are ideal for producing sparkling wines with high acidity and minerality.

Soil Management and Sustainability

A crucial aspect of winemaking is proper soil management, which ensures the long-term health of the vineyard and the quality of the grapes. Biodynamic and organic winemaking practices prioritize soil health, focusing on maintaining soil fertility and structure through the use of natural fertilizers and cover crops. These practices not only promote the production of high-quality wines but also contribute to the sustainability of the vineyard and the surrounding environment.

Soil pH: A Critical Factor in Grapevine Health and Wine Quality

Yes, I'm sorry, we're about to get technical! But I'm going to make it as painless as possible and start with Soil pH, the measure of acidity or alkalinity in the soil. This is actually a critical factor in grapevine health and wine quality. Grapes typically grow best in slightly acidic soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil pH influences nutrient availability, affecting the uptake of essential elements by the grapevine. It also plays a role in microbial activity and the breakdown of organic matter, both of which contribute to overall soil health and fertility.

An optimal soil pH helps to ensure that grapevines receive the necessary nutrients for growth and development, ultimately impacting the quality of the grapes and the wine produced. In some cases, winemakers and vineyard managers may need to amend the soil pH to create the best growing conditions for the grapevines. This process can involve the addition of limestone to raise the pH or elemental sulfur to lower it.

Elements, Atoms, and Ions: The Building Blocks of Soil

Soils are composed of a vast array of elements, atoms, and ions, which interact with one another to create a complex environment in which grapevines grow. Key elements found in soils include calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen, and sulfur. These elements are essential for plant growth and play vital roles in the grapevine's metabolism, photosynthesis, and overall health.

Many of these elements are present as ions, such as calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), potassium (K+), and phosphate (PO43-). Ions can either be positively or negatively charged, and their interactions with the soil particles and other ions can significantly affect soil structure, nutrient availability, and grapevine health. Don't let the science put you off. For me it makes it more interesting and I was useless at science at school. But now, I'm finding that subjects that once would have made me run to the hills -- Chemistry, Geology, Botany and Micro-biology -- are becoming the reason I go running to the hills to find vineyards!

Minerals: The Foundation of Soil Structure and Fertility

Minerals are a critical component of soils, providing the foundation for soil structure and fertility. They are derived from the breakdown of rocks and can be grouped into two main categories: primary minerals and secondary minerals. Primary minerals, such as feldspar and mica, originate directly from the parent rock and are relatively unaltered. In contrast, secondary minerals, such as clay and iron oxides, form through the weathering and transformation of primary minerals.

The type and proportion of minerals in a soil determine its texture, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability, all of which are essential factors in grapevine health and wine quality. For example, clay-rich soils tend to have a high water-holding capacity and nutrient availability, making them well-suited for grapevines that require a consistent supply of water and nutrients.

Igneous Rocks: The Source of Volcanic Soils

Igneous rocks, formed from the solidification of magma or lava, are the source of volcanic soils found in many wine regions worldwide. These soils are often rich in minerals and nutrients, providing an ideal environment for grapevines to thrive. The unique properties of volcanic soils can impart a distinct minerality to the wines produced from grapes grown in these areas, making them highly sought after by wine lovers.

Some well-known wine regions with volcanic soils include parts of Napa Valley in California, the Etna DOC in Sicily, and the Tokaj region in Hungary. The wines produced in these regions often exhibit a vibrant acidity and complex mineral character that sets them apart from wines grown in other soil types.

Sedimentary Rocks: The Backbone of Limestone and Marl Soils

Sedimentary rocks, formed from the accumulation and compaction of sediments, are the basis for limestone and marl soils found in many prestigious wine regions, including Burgundy. These soils are known for their high calcium carbonate content, which contributes to the elegant, mineral-driven character of the wines produced in these areas.

Ok, take a breath and let's get a bit more human again. Wine tasting...

Soil's Influence on Wine Tasting: A Journey Through the Senses

Soil not only plays a crucial role in the growth and development of grapevines, but also has a significant impact on the sensory experience of wine tasting. The interaction between the soil and grapevines contributes to the development of unique flavor profiles, aromas, and textures in wines, which can be appreciated by wine enthusiasts during wine tastings.

If you really want to taste the terroirs of Burgundy, come and see us at the Château. We have a selection of tasting experiences that you will absolutely love. Check them out here. 

Flavor Profiles: The Taste of Terroir

The flavors in a wine are a direct reflection of the grape variety, growing conditions, and winemaking techniques. However, the soil also plays a significant role in shaping a wine's flavor profile. The nutrients and minerals in the soil are absorbed by the grapevines, eventually making their way into the grapes themselves. These elements, combined with the vine's response to the soil's physical properties, contribute to the development of distinctive flavors that are unique to the terroir.

For example, wines grown in limestone-rich soils, such as those found in Burgundy, often exhibit a pronounced minerality and a subtle yet complex array of fruit and floral flavors. Similarly, wines from volcanic soils, like those in parts of Napa Valley or Etna DOC, may showcase a distinctive mineral character, along with vibrant acidity and a depth of fruit flavors.

Aromas: The Scent of the Earth

The aromas in a wine are influenced not only by the grape variety and winemaking techniques but also by the soil in which the vines grow. The interaction between the soil and grapevines can result in the development of unique aromatic compounds, which are then expressed in the wine.

Wines from soils rich in organic matter, for example, may display earthy or forest floor aromas, while those from rocky, mineral-rich soils may exhibit a distinct flinty or wet stone quality. Wine enthusiasts who participate in wine tastings can train their noses to detect these subtle nuances, deepening their appreciation for the influence of soil on the wine's character.

Texture and Mouthfeel: A Reflection of Soil Structure

The soil's influence on wine extends beyond flavors and aromas, also impacting the wine's texture and mouthfeel. Soil composition and structure can affect the grape's tannin, acidity, and sugar levels, which in turn shape the wine's body, tannin structure, and overall mouthfeel.

For instance, wines grown in well-draining, gravelly soils may produce grapes with thicker skins and more concentrated flavors, leading to a wine with a fuller body and more pronounced tannins. In contrast, wines from clay-rich soils may have a higher water-holding capacity, potentially resulting in a wine with a rounder, smoother mouthfeel and softer tannins.

A Deeper Appreciation for the Art of Wine Tasting

Understanding the influence of soils on tasting red wine, white wine, indeed any kind of wine, allows wine enthusiasts to develop a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking and the role of terroir in shaping a wine's character. By recognizing the unique qualities that different soils impart, wine lovers can embark on a sensory journey through the world's diverse wine regions, discovering the fascinating interplay between nature, science, and human skill that culminates in the creation of truly exceptional wines.

Bottom Line: it's really important!

The importance of soils in winemaking cannot be overstated, as they play a pivotal role in determining the character, quality, and style of wines produced across different regions. From the complex soils of Burgundy to the diverse terroirs of California, the relationship between soil and grape variety is integral to the winemaking process. By understanding and appreciating the influence of soils on wine, both winemakers and wine lovers can deepen their connection to this ancient and revered craft.

Here at Château de Pommard, we are leading the way in fine, biodynamic Burgundy wine. Come and see us soon.