Bonneau du Martray

Domaine Bonneau du Martray – A jewel of the Corton hill

Domaine Bonneau du Martray ranks amongst Burgundy’s finest estates and is inextricably linked to the famous Corton hill. The estate’s history dates back to 1834, when it came into the possession of the Bonneau du Martray family, who shaped it for almost two centuries . Under the leadership of Jean-Charles Le Bault de la Morinière, who took over the estate in 1994, the Domaine gained its international reputation as one of the most faithful ambassadors of the Corton wine-growing region . A landmark chapter was written in January 2017 when the sale to the American billionaire Stanley Kroenke, also owner of the Californian cult winery Screaming Eagle, was announced .

The domaine’s uniqueness lies in its exceptional location: it comprises eleven hectares of vineyards situated exclusively on the slopes of the Corton hill, and consistently produces only two Grands Crus . The white Corton-Charlemagne is the wine that established the domaine’s global reputation. It is produced on the west-facing part of the hill, which is the only Grand Cru in Burgundy to face the setting sun . This site, combined with a mosaic of nine different soil types – ranging from limestone bands to layers of clay – lends the wine an unparalleled complexity . The plots on the upper slope deliver notes of citrus and flowers, whilst the lower, more mineral-rich plots give the wine its characteristic power and richness .

The domaine’s philosophy is uncompromisingly focused on quality and authenticity. The average age of the vines is an impressive 40 to 45 years, and yields are strictly limited . Since 2013, the entire estate has been certified biodynamic under Demeter standards, to best express the delicate terroir . In the cellar, vinification follows a traditional yet precise approach: after gentle pressing, the wine matures in French oak barrels over several winters, before finally being bottled during the waning moon . The result is wines of extraordinary finesse, purity and impressive ageing potential .