Domaine Jean-Philippe Fichet, Meursault, Les Criots, Burgundy, France, 2024

Producer Profile

Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and uncompromising pursuit of quality, Jean-Philippe Fichet is one of Meursault's most respected winemakers, producing exceptional Chardonnay that combines purity, precision and remarkable expression of terroir.

Representing the third generation of a Burgundian winemaking family, Jean-Philippe Fichet established his domaine in 1981, producing his first vintage at just 20 years old. Over the years, he has built an outstanding reputation for crafting elegant, precise and mineral-driven Chardonnay. Today, the estate encompasses approximately 7 hectares, predominantly in Meursault, with additional vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet, Auxey-Duresses and Monthélie. Jean-Philippe is particularly renowned for showcasing the individuality of Meursault’s village-level lieux-dits, including Les Chevalières, Le Tesson, Les Gruyaches and Le Meix sous le Château. His philosophy centres on meticulous vineyard management, naturally low yields and minimal intervention in the cellar. The resulting wines combine concentration, refined texture and vibrant acidity with remarkable mineral precision, elegance and ageing potential, demonstrating that exceptional Burgundy is not limited to Premier Cru vineyards.

Viticulture

Meursault “Les Criots”, is a small lieu-dit just below the Grand Cru slope near Puligny-Montrachet, that produces a rich yet mineral-driven Chardonnay.

Winemaking

In the cellar, Jean-Philippe practices minimal intervention. Fermentation occurs naturally using indigenous yeasts, and wines undergo an 18-month élevage—12 months in predominantly used oak barrels followed by 6 months in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness. This approach results in wines that are precise, mineral-driven, and reflective of Meursault's unique terroirs.

Tasting Note

Pale gold with green-tinged highlights. The nose is expressive, with ripe pear, yellow apple and citrus layered with white flowers, hazelnut and a subtle mineral edge. The palate is silky and rounded, showing stone fruit, lemon curd and baked apple alongside light buttery and almond notes, balanced by fresh acidity. The finish is long, with lingering citrus, toasted nuts and a flinty freshness.

Food matching

A classic pairing would be butter-poached or roasted chicken. It also works beautifully with lobster or scallops.