Armand Heitz is synonymous with natural winemaking that pays homage to the rich history and diversity of Burgundy’s most iconic vineyards. His philosophy revolves around a deep respect for terroir, tradition, and sustainable practices. In this article, we will delve into some of the plots under Armand Heitz’s care, including Armand Heitz Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot blanc, Armand Heitz Bourgogne rouge, Armand Heitz Bourgogne Blanc, Armand Heitz Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, and Armand Heitz Echezeaux Grand Cru. Each vineyard is uniquely expressive, showcasing the complexity and finesse that define the wines of Burgundy.
Armand Heitz Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot blanc
The Morgeot Vineyard: A Heritage of Excellence
- Appellation: Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru
- Surface: 0.4364 hectares
- History and Tradition: The vineyard of Morgeot has deep historical roots, with its origins tracing back to the 12th century when the monks of Cîteaux established the vineyard and built an abbey. Today, it remains one of Chassagne-Montrachet’s most esteemed sites.
Soil and Terroir
- Soil Composition: Clay at the base of the plot transitioning to rocks and limestone towards the top.
- Profile: This complex soil structure imparts a rich and mineral quality to the wine.
- Cultivation: Managed with sustainable agronomic practices that respect the natural balance of the vineyard.
The Wine: A Balanced Expression of Terroir
The Armand Heitz Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot blanc is crafted from Chardonnay, planted in 2007. It yields a wine that is rich, harmonious, and characterized by its mineral backbone. The average yield is 45 hl/ha, and the wine undergoes 11 months of maturation in new oak barrels, with a usage rate of 20-40%. This process enhances the wine’s structure and complexity, resulting in a refined white Burgundy with great aging potential.
Armand Heitz Bourgogne rouge
The Sites and Their Legacy
- Appellation: Bourgogne
- Plots: Located in Meursault, Pommard, and Mercurey, adjacent to some of the Côte de Beaune’s most prestigious vineyards.
- Surface: 1.74 hectares
The Armand Heitz Bourgogne rouge is a testament to the quality that can be achieved in a regional appellation. The clay-silt soils on marl provide a fertile base for the Pinot Noir, planted between 1967 and 2028. These plots are cultivated with a focus on good agronomic sense, ensuring that the vines thrive while maintaining balance and sustainability.
The Wine Profile
- Maturation: Aged for 8 months with 50% whole cluster fermentation, which adds depth and structure.
- Tasting Notes: This wine boasts a rich, aromatic profile with vibrant fruit and earthy undertones. The clay-rich soil contributes to the wine’s complexity and aromatic depth.
Armand Heitz Bourgogne Blanc
The Versatile Chardonnay Sites
- Appellation: Bourgogne
- Plots: Situated in Meursault, Pommard, and Saint-Aubin
- Surface: 0.9818 hectares
The Armand Heitz Bourgogne Blanc comes from carefully selected plots known for their clay-silt soils on marl. This soil composition, often considered the mother rock for Chardonnay, enhances the wine’s ability to showcase rich, aromatic qualities.
The Wine and Its Unique Character
- Vine Planting: 1965
- Maturation: Aged for 8 months, balancing oak influence without overpowering the wine.
- Serving Temperature: 10-12°C
The Armand Heitz Bourgogne Blanc is noted for its elegance and complexity, offering flavors that range from citrus to richer, stone-fruit nuances. The balance between the clay-silt soils and careful aging practices ensures a wine that embodies freshness, minerality, and depth.
Armand Heitz Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru
A Grand Cru of Legendary Proportions
- Appellation: Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru
- Surface: Spanning between 280 and 330 meters above sea level
- Historical Significance: The vineyard has its origins in 775 when Emperor Charlemagne gifted it to the collegiate church of Saint-Andoche de Saulieu. Situated at the border between the Côte de Nuits and the Côte de Beaune, it enjoys a unique microclimate.
The Unique Soil Composition
- Soil: Marly soils rich in clay with alternating limestone banks. The steep slopes of the Montagne de Corton provide excellent drainage and exposure.
- Profile: The soil’s high mineral content allows for wines that are powerful yet balanced.
The Wine: Power and Harmony
The Armand Heitz Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru is a formidable white wine, showcasing the power and elegance of its terroir. It is aged for 11 months in oak barrels, with 20-40% being new oak, to enhance its structure without overwhelming its natural characteristics. This wine is comparable in style to the prestigious Montrachet and Meursault 1er Cru Perrières, known for its long finish and harmonious palate.
Armand Heitz Echezeaux Grand Cru
The Historic Echezeaux Vineyard
- Appellation: Echezeaux Grand Cru
- Surface: Ranging between 240 and 340 meters in altitude
- Historical Background: Echezeaux shares a boundary with the Clos de Vougeot, two vineyards that have been integral to the region since the 12th and 13th centuries, under the stewardship of the Cîteaux monks.
The Terroir and Its Influence
- Soil Composition: Clay-limestone with excellent drainage, exposed to the east and southeast.
- Profile: The higher altitude and varied exposure contribute to a wine that is both structured and aromatic.
The Wine: A Testament to Tradition
The Armand Heitz Echezeaux Grand Cru is a powerful Pinot Noir with an average yield of 40 hl/ha. It is aged for 14 months in oak barrels, with 20-40% new oak and 100% whole cluster fermentation, which adds a depth of complexity and fine tannic structure. This wine captures the essence of the Côte de Nuits, offering a harmonious blend of red fruit, earthiness, and spice.
Conclusion: The Terroir-Driven Approach of Armand Heitz
The vineyards under Armand Heitz are a reflection of both history and innovation. From the rich, mineral-driven Armand Heitz Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot blanc to the powerful Armand Heitz Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru and the structured Armand Heitz Echezeaux Grand Cru, each plot embodies the best of Burgundy. Through sustainable cultivation, precise vinification, and a profound respect for tradition, Armand Heitz continues to produce wines that capture the heart of their terroir and stand as benchmarks for quality in the region.