2022 Xavier Monnot Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières, Burgundy

A little more colour here along with yellow plum fruit on the nose. Medium-bodied some charm, fair length. Expect this to grow from here. In ten years time, it might become as fine a bottle as the 2012 which Xavier opened at the end of the tasting. Drink: 2028-2035, 

93 points Jasper Morris MW Inside Burgundy 

High on the Puligny slope, Les Folatières is one of the village’s most complete Premier Cru sites, combining lift, detail and quiet intensity, and Xavier Monnot draws that out with a style that leans toward precision and finesse. Based in Meursault, Monnot has built a reputation for clear, site driven wines, working with a restrained hand to let the vineyard speak.

The 2022 vintage brings a touch of generosity without losing its line. Aromatics are finely layered, lemon zest, grapefruit and green apple, with white peach adding a softer edge. There is a subtle floral lift and a gentle savoury note, almond, hazelnut and a hint of spice, alongside a clear chalky, flinty character that defines the wine.

On the palate it is medium to full bodied with a seamless, refined texture, but driven by a firm line of acidity that gives the wine energy and length. Citrus sits at the core, supported by well judged oak that adds depth without weight. The finish is long and mineral, with a lightly saline, savoury edge that lingers.

Monnot’s winemaking is precise and controlled, careful pressing and thoughtful élevage allowing the vineyard’s character to come through cleanly.

This is a brilliant match for seafood with both delicacy and richness. Think grilled lobster with lemon butter, seared scallops, or a whole roast fish with fennel and herbs. It also works beautifully with dishes like crab linguine, prawn and saffron risotto, or even a simple roast chicken, where the wine’s texture and acidity keep everything in balance.

Drinking beautifully now with some air, it will continue to evolve over the next ten to fifteen years, gaining more complexity while holding its shape.