Some of the world’s most sought-after Pinot Noir wines are produced from a small, 21-acre site called Clos des Lambrays, one of four grand cru vineyards in the Morey-Saint-Denis appellation.

Wines from this section are exceptionally elegant and kind to the palate, and mush less assertive than those from nearby Gevrey-Chambertin. Perhaps suggesting its superiority, the vineyard is the highest reaching among any other within the Côte d’Or.

Until 1981, Clos des Lambrays had been a premier cru vineyard; however, after being acquired by the Saier brothers, the land was recognized for its natural attributes. The brothers revitalized the vineyards, and their work paid off in a very important and well-earned promotion. Divided into three sub-climats – Meix Rentier in the east, Les Larrets in the west, and Les Bouchots in the north – the terroir differs from plot to plot, with limestone dominating the lower portions and marl being prevalent in the top. These diversities create equally diverse, but equally impressive, wines.

Clos des Lambrays is a near-monopole, with the Domaine des Lambrays being the primary producer. Only a tiny portion in the lower section remains under the ownership of Domaine Taupenot-Merme. Top Producer: Domaine des Lambrays