Vineyards
The Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru vineyard is one of Burgundy’s most revered sites, sitting just above Montrachet on the slopes of Puligny-Montrachet. With its higher altitude and well-drained, limestone-rich soils, this Grand Cru benefits from an exceptional balance of sun exposure and cooling influences, ensuring a slow and even ripening process. Domaine Etienne Sauzet meticulously tends to their parcel with sustainable viticulture, maintaining low yields to preserve concentration and purity in the fruit.
The vineyard’s terroir imparts both intensity and precision to the wine, enhancing its ability to age gracefully while retaining its characteristic minerality and elegance.
Winemaking
The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and undergo rigorous sorting before pressing. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, of which approximately 40% are new, lending the wine structure and depth while preserving its inherent freshness.
The wine is aged on fine lees for 12–15 months, with occasional bâtonnage (lees stirring) to enhance texture and complexity. Minimal filtration is used before bottling to maintain the wine’s authenticity and purity.
Appearance
Pale gold with brilliant clarity, reflecting its youthful vibrancy and potential for long-term ageing.
Nose
Expressive and refined, with layers of citrus zest, white peach, and green apple, intertwined with floral aromas of acacia and honeysuckle. Notes of toasted almonds, wet stone, and subtle spice add further complexity.
Palate
A wine of remarkable finesse and depth, displaying a harmonious balance of power and precision. The palate reveals flavours of ripe stone fruit, lemon curd, and a touch of brioche, underpinned by a persistent mineral core. Bright acidity and finely integrated oak lead to a long, elegant finish.
Food pairing
This Grand Cru pairs beautifully with refined seafood dishes such as Dover sole meunière, seared scallops with citrus butter, or butter-poached lobster. It also complements roasted poultry, creamy risottos, and aged Comté cheese.
Background story
Domaine Etienne Sauzet is one of Burgundy’s most prestigious producers, renowned for its benchmark expressions of Puligny-Montrachet and Grand Cru terroirs. Founded in the early 20th century, the estate remains family-owned and continues to uphold a philosophy of meticulous vineyard management and respect for tradition. Chevalier-Montrachet represents one of the domaine’s finest achievements, embodying the purity and elegance for which Sauzet is celebrated.