The 2020 Domaine Bonneau du Martray Corton Grand Cru is a rare Grand Cru Pinot Noir from the Hill of Corton in Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune, produced by a domaine far better known for its legendary Corton-Charlemagne. Bonneau du Martray owns approximately one hectare of Pinot Noir in the Le Charlemagne sector on the Aloxe-Corton side of the hill, with the vines positioned lower on the slope where the soils contain significantly more clay than the limestone-dominated Chardonnay parcels above. The vineyard faces predominantly west to southwest, receiving sunlight from late morning through to sunset while airflow from the surrounding hills helps preserve freshness. This unusual position gives the wine a fascinating combination of Corton power and Charlemagne freshness, making it one of the most distinctive - and considerably rarer - wines produced by the domaine.
The 2020 is a particularly impressive vintage, showing dark cherry, black raspberry and plum alongside strawberry, pomegranate, violet, rose petal, liquorice, clove, spice and earthy mineral notes. The palate is concentrated and powerful but remarkably polished, with fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity and a long, perfumed finish. The domaine has progressively refined the vinification of its Corton Rouge, including later picking and experimentation with amphora and a small proportion of whole clusters in 2020.
