The Rarest Grape Varietals Grown on the Smallest Amount of Land

When it comes to the world of wine, finding grape varietals grown on the smallest amount of land can be quite a challenge. Many of these unique varieties exist on tiny plots, with some of the most notable ones coming from the world-renowned vineyards of Burgundy. This article will explore some of the rarest grape varietals that are cultivated on incredibly small plots of land. We'll start by diving into the fascinating world of one such example: the Romanée-Conti vineyard.

Stunning Small Plots: Romanée-Conti Vineyard

Located in the C?te des Nuits, a sub-region within the esteemed Burgundy wine region, the Romanée-Conti vineyard stands out as a remarkable example of a vineyard grown on a minuscule plot of land. Stretching over just 1.8 hectares (4.6 acres), this vineyard is remarkable in both its scale and output. Despite its small size, the Romanée-Conti produces only around 5000 bottles per year, making it one of the most sought-after and pricey wines in the world. A single 2016 vintage bottle of Romanée-Conti can cost a staggering 22,000 Euros. This scarcity lends the wine a reputation as the world's most expensive wine.

The Star of the Show: Pinot Noir

The main grape variety here is Pinot Noir, a cultivar that has garnered immense popularity among both wine enthusiasts and experts. This variety is particularly well-suited for the C?te des Nuits, where its terroir emphasizes the expression of elegance and finesse. The unique qualities of the Romanée-Conti vineyard ensure that each bottle produced is a true masterpiece.

Other Notable Small Plot Vineyards

Although the Romanée-Conti vineyard is one of the most famous, it’s by no means the only plot of land where rare grape varietals thrive. Here are a few more examples of small vineyards known for cultivating valuable and rare wine:

Rue de l'Arlot, A?

Located in the commune of A?, another town within the C?te des Blancs area of Champagne, the Rue de l'Arlot vineyard is another prime example of a small-scale plot. At 0.75 hectares (1.9 acres), this vineyard produces a predominantly Chardonnay-based wine famous for its complexity and ageability. The approximate yield is 4000 bottles per hectare, further emphasizing the rarity and quality of the produce.

Santé Vineyard, California

For those looking a little further afield, the Santé Vineyard in California is another unique small plot. Situated in the Knights Valley AVA, this small vineyard covers only 2.5 acres, but it is home to a premium Zinfandel cultivation. The Santé Vineyard's Zinfandel is known for its rich flavor profile, with low yields of around 3000 bottles per acre.

Finding the Rarity

The rarity of these small plots and the unique grape varietals they produce doesn’t come from a lack of demand but rather from the extremely limited land available for such cultivation. As a result, every bottle from these vineyards is often seen as a special treat for connoisseurs and collectors. Whether it's the elegant and complex Pinot Noir from the Romanée-Conti vineyard or the age-worthy Chardonnay from Rue de l'Arlot, these small, exclusive plots play a crucial role in the world of fine wine.

Conclusion

While the challenge of finding rare and high-quality wine from tiny plots may be daunting, the journey through this landscape is rewarding. From the stunning Romanée-Conti vineyard to the elegant Rue de l'Arlot and the rich, flavorful Santé Vineyard, these small-scale vineyards offer a glimpse into the world of wine that is both rare and exceptional. The rarest grape varietals on the smallest plots of land may be few, but they are certainly cherished and celebrated.