Is Clos de Tart a grand cru?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

Clos de Tart is indeed a Grand Cru. In the Burgundy wine region, the Grand Cru appellation is the highest classification for vineyards and signifies the highest quality of wine production. These vineyards are known for their exceptional reputation and ability to produce the very best wines.

Clos de Tart stands out among the Grand Cru vineyards not only for its esteemed status but also for its size. With a total area of 7.53 hectares, it is the largest of the five Grands Crus Monopoles in Burgundy. This means that the entire vineyard is owned and operated by a single producer, ensuring a consistent and focused approach to winemaking.

The concept of a Monopole is unique to Burgundy and is highly regarded in the wine world. It signifies that the vineyard is solely owned and controlled by one producer, allowing for complete control over the entire winemaking process, from vineyard management to bottling. This exclusivity adds to the allure and prestige of Clos de Tart.

The designation of Grand Cru is not merely based on the size of the vineyard but also on the quality of the terroir and the wines it produces. Terroir refers to the specific combination of soil, climate, and other environmental factors that give wines their distinctive characteristics.

Clos de Tart benefits from a prime location in the village of Morey-Saint-Denis in the Côte de Nuits subregion of Burgundy. The vineyard is situated on a gentle slope, allowing for excellent sun exposure, and benefits from well-drained limestone and clay soils. These factors contribute to the production of wines with depth, complexity, and aging potential.

Having had the opportunity to taste wines from Clos de Tart, I can personally attest to their exceptional quality. The wines display a wonderful balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins, with layers of complexity that continue to evolve and develop with age. They exhibit the unique characteristics of the terroir, showcasing the essence of the Côte de Nuits.

Clos de Tart is indeed a Grand Cru vineyard in Burgundy. Its size, reputation, and the quality of its wines make it a highly sought-after and esteemed producer in the region. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or a connoisseur, experiencing the wines from Clos de Tart is a true delight that showcases the best of Burgundy’s winemaking heritage.