History
Château de la Maltroye is an 18th-century bourgeois mansion in Chassagne-Montrachet, Cote de Beaune, Burgundy, built atop 15th-century ruins with vaulted cellars still used for aging; the estate entered winemaking in 1939-1941 when grandfather Marcel Picard purchased it, bringing 80% of today's vineyards. Jean-Pierre Cornut (or Cournut), third generation and former aeronautics engineer, took over from father André in 1993, restoring the diamond-patterned glazed-tile property while expanding to 13-15 hectares—70% Premier Cru including monopole Clos du Château de la Maltroye, Maltroie, and sites in Santenay.
Viticulture Philosophy
Vines span Chassagne's clay-limestone slopes with diverse exposures, favoring both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in complex climats like the tripartite Maltroie 1er Cru; sustainable practices ensure balance and concentration from old parcels.
Winemaking Techniques
Gentle pneumatic pressing for whites, whole-cluster for reds, with stainless steel or oak élevage tailored to preserve fruit purity, minerality, and structure; aging in historic cellars yields elegant, site-transparent wines from villages to Premier Crus.
Critics and Journalist Praises
Château de la Maltroye has risen sharply since the 1990s under Jean-Pierre, earning acclaim for refined Chassagne expressions blending power and finesse, with Clos de la Maltroye lauded for depth and terroir fidelity among Cote de Beaune standouts.
