2020 Olivier Leflaive Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru, Burgundy

Similar colour, with clearly greater weight immediately obvious, not heavy. Maybe a first hint of honeysuckle. Solid and spicy on the palate, so far away from being ready to bottle let alone drink. Superb intensity of course, extra weight comes mostly at the back of the palate, the acidity holds it up very well, impressive persistence, all very fine indeed. Drink from 2026-2034. Tasted Nov 2021.

95-98 points Jasper Morris MW Inside Burgundy

Bâtard Montrachet stands among the greatest white wine vineyards on earth, producing Chardonnay of extraordinary power, depth and longevity. Olivier Leflaive has built an enviable reputation for crafting exceptional Burgundy through meticulous vineyard selection and sensitive élevage, allowing the individuality of each Grand Cru site to shine. The 2020 Bâtard Montrachet is a magnificent expression of this legendary vineyard, combining richness with breathtaking precision.

Situated between Puligny Montrachet and Chassagne Montrachet, Bâtard Montrachet's limestone and clay soils, combined with mature vines and a superb 2020 growing season, have produced fruit of exceptional concentration and balance. Fermentation and maturation in carefully selected French oak enhance texture and complexity without overshadowing the vineyard's remarkable mineral character, creating a wine of profound elegance and effortless harmony.

The colour is a luminous pale gold with youthful green reflections. Aromas of white peach, preserved lemon and ripe citrus are layered with acacia blossom, hazelnut, fresh brioche and subtle smoky flint. The palate is powerful yet beautifully poised, combining intense stone fruit and citrus with silky texture, vibrant acidity and an unmistakable chalky mineral core. Layers of toasted almond, fine spice and crushed oyster shell unfold through an extraordinarily long, graceful finish that speaks of one of Burgundy's greatest terroirs.

A magnificent companion to butter poached lobster, roasted turbot, seared scallops, Bresse chicken with morels or aged Comté. While captivating today with careful decanting, this remarkable Grand Cru will continue to evolve for twenty years or more, rewarding patient collectors with even greater complexity and finesse.