Prieure Roch was founded by Henry Roch (previously co-director of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti) and is coveted for its top-notch plots, including a prime section of Chambertin Clos de Beze and extensive monopole holdings. Today, winemaker Yannick Champ continues Henry's vision, using homeopathic and biodynamic methods in the old-vine vineyards, vinification with all whole clusters, manual punch-downs, low sulfur use, and long elevage in barrels. The result is an aromatic delight, with a kaleidoscopic bouquet and fresh, wide-ranging fruit full of spice and structure.
Vines average over 70 years old, with some over 90 years old. Several wines are made from this site, but the Corvees only comes from the first pass - a selection of the ripest bunches, resulting in more intensity of flavors and tannins. These bunches primarily come from the oldest vines and supply the characteristic damask rose, brambly dark red fruit, and underpinning structure. Very pure, very long, powerful, complex, earthy, and grounded - a compelling case for the top wine of the estate!
Another flagship wine for the estate is Ladoix Le Cloud Rouge, which comes from 50-year-old vines and offers a fresh, supple take on the house style. The bright red fruits, effusive floral nose, and fine structure complement the intense minerality of the iron-rich and chalky soils. For a pure hedonistic experience, their VDF Blanc, made from a tiny sliver of 30-year-old vines just outside Vosne-Romanee, partially fermented on the skins, offers a unique take on White Burgundy. Complex, textured, and dense, with fresh, mouthwatering acidity, it marries fresh pear and melon notes with dried apricots and spice for an unforgettable take on Chardonnay!
The Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru comes from the "young" 50-year-old vines in Clos des Corvees, offering a more open, exuberant take on their flagship bottling. Immensely pure and focused red fruit, with a generosity suited for slightly earlier consumption.
The estate's holdings include two Grand Crus (45-year-old vines in Clos de Beze and Clos Vougeot) and top vineyards in Vosne-Romanee. New for 2020 are two sites in Gevrey Chambertin, one of which is their third monopole vineyard, the 1er Cru Clos des Varoilles.