La Soeur Cadette, under the tutelage of Valentin Montanet, stands proudly as a beacon of change in this off-the radar part of Burgundy. Continuing the work of his parents (Domaines: La Cadette & Montanet – Thoden) Valentin makes beautiful Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from his limestone terroir in Vézelay, including in his range also Melon de Bourgogne – the original Burgundian variant of the signature variety of Muscadet. While the climate here is slightly cooler than in Chablis, the vines enjoy great sun exposure, producing a balance between generous fruit and deep mineral structure.
The Chardonnay grapes are harvested by hand and then direct pressed then fermented naturally in stainless steel tanks and two large foudre where the wine is left to mature for 8 to 10 months on lees. The wine undergoes a light filtration before being bottled with minimal sulphites added.
This is a beautifully-textured wine, showing that white wines of considerable elegance can be produced in this region.
