2022 Vincent Girardin Chassagne Montrachet Vieilles Vignes, Burgundy

Vincent Girardin Chassagne-Montrachet Vieilles Vignes is a distinguished Chardonnay from Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune, showcasing the richness, complexity, and elegance for which Chassagne-Montrachet is celebrated. Crafted from vieilles vignes—old vines that yield grapes of exceptional intensity—this wine reflects Vincent Girardin’s commitment to producing terroir-driven wines with precision and finesse.

The vineyards for this Chassagne-Montrachet are located on limestone-rich soils that are emblematic of the region, lending the wine its signature minerality and structure. The old vines, some over 50 years of age, contribute to the wine’s depth and concentration. The warm climate of Chassagne-Montrachet ensures ripe, expressive fruit, while the region’s cool nights help retain freshness and balance.

Vinification follows a meticulous, low-intervention approach to highlight the purity and character of the fruit. Grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed, with fermentation carried out in French oak barrels using indigenous yeasts. The wine is aged on fine lees for 14-16 months in French oak, with approximately 15-20% new barrels. This aging process enhances the wine’s texture and complexity without overshadowing its vibrant fruit and minerality.

In the glass, Vincent Girardin Chassagne-Montrachet Vieilles Vignes reveals a radiant pale gold color. The nose is complex and inviting, with aromas of ripe pear, white peach, and lemon zest, interwoven with hints of acacia flowers, toasted hazelnuts, and a touch of flint. On the palate, it is full-bodied and richly textured, yet balanced by fresh acidity. Flavors of citrus, orchard fruits, and subtle vanilla unfold gracefully, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish.

This wine is an ideal match for a range of refined dishes, including butter-poached lobster, seared scallops, roasted chicken with tarragon, or creamy truffle risotto. It also pairs beautifully with soft cheeses like Chaource or triple-cream Brie. While approachable now, this Chassagne-Montrachet has the structure and vibrancy to evolve over the next 8-12 years, developing even greater complexity and depth.