Les Millandes is one of the largest Premier Cru climats in Morey-Saint-Denis, located just north of the town itself. It is one of a strip of Premier Cru climats that lie at the base of the Cote d'Or below the Grand Cru hillside, and, like its neighbors, is planted to Pinot Noir. Les Millandes Premier Cru wines are structured and elegant with firm tannins, and are considered some of the best Premier Cru wines from Morey-Saint-Denis.
The 10-acre (4ha) vineyard lies on the outskirts of Morey-Saint-Denis village, between the Clos Saint-Denis Grand Cru climat in the west and village-level vineyards in the east. Les Millandes is named for the small size of the berries that are produced by the vines here – a symptom of both the favorable terroir and the advanced age of the vines, some approaching 70 years old.
The vines are planted on similar clay limestone soils as in the Grand Cru vineyards on the hillside above. While these soils are generally free draining, the clay in the soil stores enough water to hydrate vines throughout the growing season. This water, however, is not easily accessible and forces vines to grow strong roots and forsake canopy growth for the development of small, concentrated grapes.
A gentle easterly aspect in Les Millandes provides an important sunlight exposure, aiding ripening in Burgundy's cool climate. The grapes reach optimal ripeness prior to harvest, but cooler evenings mean they retain essential acidity. The wines that are made from these grapes are well balanced and can be cellared for several years.
