Domaine Fernand & Laurent Pillot, Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Blanc, Les Champgains, Burgundy, France, 2023

Producer Profile

Laurent Pillot, who took over the running of this domaine in his mid-20s, transformed his family’s estate from one to devoted to grape-growing into one of the more distinguished winemaking estates in the Côte de Beaune, though he has since transferred the winemaking responsibilities to his son, Adrien.

Consisting of a superb collection of vineyards and a modern winemaking facility on the edge of St Aubin, both the domaine’s reds and whites are of an excellent quality – notably the white Chassagne-Montrachet and the rounded, sultry Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot Rouge, both of which clearly express a beautiful underlying minerality.

Viticulture

Pruned in Guyot simple style, this parcel was planted in 2002 nd is situated next to the family home. Before replanting the soil was left to regenerate without the application of fertiliser for 5 years. The result being young healthy vines who are already giving very mature grapes.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-picked. Pressed, the juice is then fermented in French oak barrels (40% new). The wine is barrel aged until the following summer. In this way, the wine has time to integrate and confirm its personality. Bottled at the winery after ageing for 11-12 months.

Tasting Note

A generous, warm and rounded Chardonnay with white flower, citrus fruits supported by delicate acidity.

Food Matching

A fine wine matching well with grilled fish, prawns, crayfish/lobster.