2022 Vincent Girardin Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Combettes, Burgundy

Mid lemon yellow. The bouquet shows white orchard fruit in some volume. This is tightly wound for a Combettes, with lifted white fruit, very good energy through the middle of the palate, and a trace of ripe citrus at the finish. Structured and youthful. Drink from 2029-2037. Tasted Nov 2023.

92-95 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

Vincent Girardin Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Combettes is a stunning Chardonnay that exemplifies the elegance and complexity of Burgundy’s premier cru vineyards. Crafted by Vincent Girardin, a master of terroir-driven winemaking, this wine showcases the refined character of Puligny-Montrachet, a village synonymous with world-class Chardonnay. The Les Combettes vineyard, located near the border of Meursault, is renowned for producing wines with richness, precision, and exceptional aging potential.

The Les Combettes vineyard features limestone-rich soils with a mix of clay, providing a perfect balance of minerality and structure. Its southeast-facing slopes capture ample sunlight, allowing the Chardonnay grapes to ripen fully while retaining vibrant acidity. This unique terroir contributes to the wine’s harmonious blend of power and finesse.

Vinification at Vincent Girardin follows a philosophy of minimal intervention to preserve the purity of the fruit and the expression of the vineyard. Grapes are hand-harvested, gently pressed, and fermented in French oak barrels using indigenous yeasts. The wine is aged for 18 months in oak barrels, with approximately 25% new oak, adding subtle complexity and texture without overpowering the wine’s natural elegance.

In the glass, the wine displays a radiant pale gold hue. The nose is complex and alluring, offering aromas of white peach, ripe pear, and citrus zest, interwoven with floral notes, toasted almonds, and a touch of flinty minerality. On the palate, it is full-bodied yet precise, with vibrant acidity supporting flavors of lemon curd, orchard fruit, and a delicate hint of vanilla and hazelnut. The finish is long, layered, and impeccably balanced, reflecting its premier cru pedigree.

This Puligny-Montrachet is an exceptional partner for refined dishes such as butter-basted lobster, seared scallops, or roast chicken with tarragon. It also pairs beautifully with creamy risottos or soft cheeses like Saint-André. While accessible now, this wine has the structure to evolve gracefully over the next 10-15 years, gaining additional complexity and depth with time.