Located in the esteemed Chassagne-Montrachet area of Burgundy, Domaine Noël Gagnard is a standard for white wines. Noël Gagnard and his wife Jacqueline founded the estate in the middle of the 20th century, and it is still family-owned, with each generation carrying on the tradition of quality. The Domaine’s vineyards are dispersed over some of the best Premier Cru locations in Chassagne-Montrachet, such as Boudriotte and Les Caillerets. Chardonnay thrives in these limestone-rich areas, yielding precise and full-bodied wines. The domaine maintains the vineyards’ health for upcoming generations by engaging in sustainable viticulture.
2019 Puligny-Montrachet, Domaine Noël Gagnard
A radiant expression of Puligny-Montrachet, the 2019 vintage from Domaine Noël Gagnard reveals aromas of lemon zest, white peach, and acacia blossoms, underscored by hints of crushed stones and a subtle touch of vanilla. On the palate, it is vibrant and precise, with a creamy texture balanced by racy acidity. Flavors of citrus, green apple, and a touch of brioche lead to a long, mineral-driven finish. Elegantly structured, this wine captures the essence of its terroir and promises graceful aging. 92 corked Points
One of Bordeaux’s oldest estates is Chateau Pichon Longueville de Lalande, which was founded in 1689. The history of the château, which is situated in the esteemed Pauillac appellation, is entwined with Bordeaux’s rise to prominence as a world wine capital. Château Pichon Longueville de Lalande established its unique character after Pichon Longueville, which had been a part of a single estate, was split into two holdings in the 19th century. The estate’s 89 hectares of vineyards are on gravelly soils, retaining heat and allowing for good drainage. The estate’s substantial amount of Merlot, which is uncommon in Pauillac, gives its wines a rich, velvety texture, but Cabernet Sauvignon still makes up the majority of the plantings. The blends are completed with the addition of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, which give them structure and depth.
2008 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande
A refined Pauillac with a graceful character, the 2008 vintage opens with aromas of blackcurrant, raspberry, and violets, layered with notes of cedar, graphite, and a hint of dark chocolate. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and impeccably balanced, showcasing silky tannins and a vibrant acidity. Flavors of red and black fruits intertwine with earthy undertones and a touch of spice, leading to a long, elegant finish. This wine embodies finesse and is drinking beautifully now, with potential for further development. 90 corked Point
A well-known gem that embodies the winemaking culture of the renowned Burgundy area of France is Domaine Bonneau de Matray. With origins spanning centuries, this family-run estate has been a mainstay of the local viticulture industry. With vines situated on limestone-rich soils that are perfect for Burgundy’s flagship varietals, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the domaine, which is situated in the Côte d’Or, enjoys a fantastic location. The Domaine’s vines are carefully managed with a focus on sustainable practices to maintain the vitality of the land. The delicate and complex Pinot Noirs from Bonneau de Matray have red fruit, flowery scents, and a hint of earthiness. Meanwhile, the Chardonnays are known for their citrus, green apple, and mineral flavours and liveliness.
2014 Corton-Charlemagne, Domaine Bonneau du Matray https://www.bonneaudumartray.com/
A radiant expression of its Grand Cru terroir, this wine opens with aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and white peach, underpinned by flinty minerality and subtle hazelnut notes. On the palate, it is precise and layered, with vibrant acidity balancing a creamy texture. Flavours of citrus, pear, and a whisper of vanilla unfold into a long, mineral-driven finish. Structured and elegant, it promises remarkable ageing potential, showcasing the finesse of a benchmark Corton-Charlemagne. 93 corked Points
