Domaine Alain Chavy, Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles AOP 2014

Tasting note

This Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles from Domaine Alain Chavy offers a captivating nose of citrus blossom, green apple, and subtle white peach, interwoven with hints of acacia and crushed stone minerality. On the palate, it’s both elegant and precise, showing layers of ripe orchard fruits, a touch of lemon zest, and a pronounced minerality. The wine’s acidity is finely balanced with a creamy texture, leading to a long, saline-driven finish that showcases its Premier Cru complexity and depth. This 2014 vintage has a remarkable purity and poise, demonstrating the unique terroir of Les Pucelles.

Production

Domaine Alain Chavy’s Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles is produced with grapes from the esteemed Les Pucelles vineyard, one of the most revered sites in Puligny-Montrachet. Located adjacent to the legendary Grand Cru vineyards, Les Pucelles benefits from limestone-rich soils that contribute to its mineral intensity. Alain Chavy uses sustainable viticulture practices, and the grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness. The wine is fermented in oak barrels, of which 20-25% are new, allowing a subtle integration of oak without overpowering the wine’s natural elegance. The wine undergoes regular bâtonnage to enhance its creamy mouthfeel and is aged on fine lees for around 12 months to develop structure and complexity.

Food pairing

With its delicate balance of freshness and richness, this Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru pairs beautifully with fine seafood dishes, such as grilled lobster, seared scallops, or Dover sole in a beurre blanc sauce. It also complements creamy poultry dishes like chicken with tarragon, as well as mushroom risotto. For a cheese pairing, a mature Comté or a soft-ripened Brie provides an ideal match, enhancing the wine’s minerality and nuanced fruit profile.

Accolades

17 points Jancis Robinson