2022 Domaine Paul Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Saint-Jean, Burgundy

A lovely fresh purple, with a stunning bouquet all about the fruit first and only the 100 whole bunch vinification later. Griotte cherries and crushed strawberries, proper intensity yet with a sense of weightlessness, and a lovely little fresh pinch of acidity to finish. Drink from 2027-2034. Tasted: November 2023.

90-93 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

Domaine Paul Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Saint-Jean from Burgundy is an exquisite Premier Cru Chardonnay crafted by Thierry Pillot, a winemaker celebrated for his precision and respect for the unique terroirs of Chassagne-Montrachet. Thierry, who represents the fourth generation at Domaine Paul Pillot, is known for his careful approach, organic practices, and commitment to creating wines that express their vineyard origins with purity and finesse. The Clos Saint-Jean vineyard, a prestigious site within Chassagne-Montrachet, is known for producing wines with remarkable structure and elegance due to its limestone-rich soils and excellent sun exposure.

This Premier Cru Chardonnay opens with aromas of citrus zest, green apple, and white peach, along with floral hints and a distinctive minerality. On the palate, it is complex and layered, offering flavors of ripe orchard fruits, lemon curd, and a touch of almond, framed by a fine acidity that provides lift and balance. A subtle oak influence adds depth and a creamy texture without overwhelming the wine’s freshness. The finish is long and graceful, leaving notes of chalk and saline that reflect the vineyard’s limestone terroir.

Ideal for pairing with refined dishes such as seared scallops, lobster, roasted poultry, and creamy risottos, this Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru is both versatile and age-worthy, promising further complexity with cellaring.