Albert Bichot, Puligny Montrachet, Burgundy, France, 2022

Producer Profile

The Bichot family have had connections with wine since 1831 when Bernard Bichot founded a wine trading business in Monthélie.

Bernard's son Hippolyte bought the first of the families vines in Volnay and his son Albert gave the family business momentum in the late 19th century, settling in the heart of Beaune where they still nourish their dream. Having gone off to find adventure in the world, travelling extensively from the Arctic to the Antaractic, Albéric Bichot returned to Beaune and took the business over in 1996. Though he fully respects family traditions, he is completely focused on the future. He compares himself to the "conductor of an orchestra, proud to bring people and their talents together over a common project". He tackles the many challenges with energy, converting to organic viticulture in the Côte-d'Or vineyards, adapting to to new markets as they emerge and, increasing the prestige and exposure of Burgundy wines and much more. He remains convinced that the quality of the grapes decides the quality of the wine and is focused on developing work first undertaken in the 1980s by securing supplies, and expanding vinification capacity and the ageing cellars.

Viticulture

The company's vineyards now total 6 estates that cover Burgundy from north to south, and they work tirelessly to protect the terroir for the future generations and with respect for nature. Practicing sustainable viticulture paying close attention to the delicate balances found in nature. Ploughed and fertilised with organic matter, they encourage manual labour that boosts the plants natural defences.

Winemaking

Thirty five percent of the wine is aged in new oak imparting some smoke and toast to complement the honeyed and stone fruit characteristics on the palate.

Tasting Note

Pale yellow and gold in colour, there is oak and vanilla on the nose that opens out to white peach and hawthorn blossom. Plenty of length on the palate, well balanced and mineral like.

Food Matching

Fish with a buttery sauce, mushrooms and ragôut.