Monthelie

Behind Meursault, at the top of a hill is Monthelie, one of Cote de Beaune’s most underrated communes. It is odd that this delightful picturesque little village should be so neglected. One reason might be that previously the wine was sold in bulk to negociants to bottle as Cote de Beaune-Villages but in recent years it is getting more attention and is a worthy alternative to the more costly Volnay.

It is also one of the smallest communes of the Cote, second only to Vougeot, with 119ha of vines. Of these 83ha is of AC Monthelie and 36ha under Monthelie premier cru (15 in total). The finest is Sur la Velle and Les Champs-Fulliot. Soil is mainly limestone, with some marls and iron-bearing rocks.

Although there is a tiny quantity of Blanc (100% Chardonnay), it is the red that Monthelie founded the reputation. The wines are of depth and structure, with reasonable longevity. It combines the finesse of Volnay with the body and structure of Auxey. Best producers include Didier Darviot, Jean-Francois Coche, Vincent Girardin, Comtes Lafon and Louis Jadot. The wines are undervalued and underpriced, and definitely a good source to look out for a good Burgundy red.

Wines from Monthelie which I owned and tasted:

• Eric de Suremain, Chateau de Monthelie 2003

Tasting Note:

Medium ruby colour with watery rims, this Monthelie has a medium and developing aromas of raspberry, sour red cherry, medicinal, plum and violet. On the palate it has a medium acidity with light tannin, which shows an integrated and smooth texture. Even though the alcohol level is of medium level it got a warming sensation upon swallowing. Relatively light body, the wine has medium intensity flavors of plum, strawberry, sour red cherry, cedar and medicinal. Overall of acceptable quality, it has a ripe red fruit characters dominating on both nose and palate. Relatively simple, nevertheless the wine has a reasonable intensity and length. Ready to drink now but can further develop for another 2-3 years.