Planted in 1973 across 22 different small plots, all on limestone marls and clay soils. Always respectful of nature, Jacques Robin has achieved the HVE or 'Haute Valeur Environnementale'. This is an environmental certification for producers covering biodiversity conservation, plant protection strategy, management of fertiliser use and management of water.

This is one of several individual "Cuvée" from Jacques Robin, the top wine of the estate, and the favourite that we tasted by quite a margin. Only 330 cases produced. This is 100% Pinot Noir from a single site on Kimmeridge soils (similar to Chablis) produced from the compaction of oyster limestone shells from the Jurassic era.  The impact of the soil on the vines, grapes, and wine cannot be understated.  As reviewed by an Italian enthusiast:

"The exceptionality of kimmeridge lies in the ability to trace a very ancient life of those marine organisms that have deposited on the seabed over millions of years. The grapes tend to preserve high acidity values at full maturity, particularly if the value of the Calcium is high and that of potassium is low. The grape peels (white and red) that insist on Kimmeridge soils are thicker and more resistant. The drainage of the soil finds an optimal condition, with the absence of stagnation of moisture or mold; contrary to the water reserves of the subsoil that are remarkable."

This Cuvée is a vintage wine, aged for an incredible 12 years on lees before disgorgement.  Profoundly complex wine, full bodied yet simultaneously delicate. he nose is airy, elegant in fineness with notes of hazelnuts, praline, acacia honey, vanilla, dry apricots, chocolate and tobacco leaf. The elegance continues in the mouth with a pretty freshness of lemon zest, white fruits, and a long mineral finish. A gastronomic Champagne for sure.  Rated 94 points by James Suckling.