Etymology: Suchot is a derivative of souche, tree stump. It generally alludes to the clearing operations that were carried out, leaving only the tree stumps and roots after the trees have been cut down. (Source: Marie-Hélène Landrieu-Lussigny).
Size: 0.39 ha (0.94 ac)
Variety: Pinot Noir
Vine Age: Planted in 1939 and 1988
Terroir: The Mugneret parcel is located at the top of the vineyard in the unofficial lieu-dit Grands Suchots. This was the name several vignerons including Pascal’s and Charles Lachaux’ grandfathers used to give to the location, in an effort to proudly separate their great Suchots from the lesser ones at the bottom of the slope. Pascal says that his vineyard counts up to 5 specific terroir units despite its small size. A the top the clays are shallow, very stony, and very draining, which can present occasional risks of hydric stress. Towards the middle there is an ancient river bed. The clays are deeper and more water-retentive. The vines never struggle and there is always grass in the rows. At the bottom, there is a resurgence of the bedrock. The soils are very shallow, yet the vines do not struggle here either.
Viticulture: Uncertified biodynamic
Vinification: 50-60% whole cluster, ambient yeast ferment. Aged in oak barrels (30% new) for 12 to 18 months. Since 2016, very moderate sulfur additions: none during vinification, a little during élevage and before bottling, for a total of 15 to 20 ppm. beckywasserman
