Clos de Monsieur Noly 11-12-13-16-18, Pouilly-Fuissé Maison Valette | Burgundy

Maison Valette 's Pouilly-Fuissé Le Clos de Monsieur Noly is without doubt one of the most emblematic, accomplished and prestigious wines of the Mâconnais. The alchemy between the clay-limestone soils and the old vines gives the Chardonnay a rare expression, worthy of the greatest Burgundy crus. Clos de Monsieur Noly is a rare parcel of land, a veritable jewel of Pouilly Fuissé, organically cultivated for decades by Domaine Valette. Hand harvesting, slow pressing, natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts - everything is done by hand, with uncommon patience and exacting standards. The particularly long ageing process is what makes this cuvée so famous, as it spends around 84 months on fine lees in old barrels! Theblend of 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016 and 2018 vintages combines the freshness of young juices with the maturity of reserve wines.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : The Pouilly Fuissé Le Clos de Monsieur Noly from Domaine Valette strikes a striking balance between the richness of ripe fruit and the complexity of tertiary nuances developed by the extraordinary ageing. Its density and almost meditative depth are matched by astonishing mineral tension, giving this cuvée phenomenal length. One of the greatest expressions of Burgundy!

On the nose, the wine reveals a palette of great nobility that rises to a crescendo. Notes of juicy pear and yellow peach mingle with suave aromas of candied zest and orange marmalade. Aeration reveals evolved nuances of honey, fresh brioche and fine vanilla. The mineral depth of the terroir reinforces the complexity of the bouquet and invites tasting.

On the palate, the texture is silky and enveloping, pierced from the outset by remarkable, balancing acidity. Aromas of poached apricot, pear in syrup and candied lemon are balanced in a smooth body, carried by chiseled acidity whose saline tension prolongs the sensation of freshness. Prolonged ageing adds an elegant patina to the aromas of sweet spices and creamy honey, and the finish, with its controlled tension, allows the harmony of tertiary aromas to linger for a very long time. A Pouilly-Fuissé for laying down, worthy of the finest Burgundy whites.