Domaine Jean-Louis Chavy Puligny-Montrachet 2021

Winery Background and History

Domaine Jean-Louis Chavy is situated in the esteemed village of Puligny-Montrachet within Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune region. The Chavy family’s viticultural roots in Puligny-Montrachet extend over two centuries. In 1986, Gérard Chavy began bottling under his own label, marking the family’s transition to estate bottling. Upon Gérard’s retirement, his holdings were divided between his sons, Jean-Louis and Alain, each establishing their own domaines. Jean-Louis constructed a modern, temperature-controlled cellar in 2003, reflecting his commitment to combining traditional practices with contemporary techniques. His wines are celebrated for their elegance, purity, and expression of terroir, embodying the classic characteristics of Puligny-Montrachet.

Producer and Winemaker

Jean-Louis Chavy manages his eponymous domaine, overseeing both vineyard cultivation and winemaking processes. He employs traditional methods in the vineyard, emphasizing low yields and meticulous care to ensure the health and quality of the vines. In the cellar, Jean-Louis utilizes modern technology to enhance precision while maintaining a focus on minimal intervention. This approach allows the wines to authentically express their varietal character and the unique attributes of their terroir.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The 2021 Puligny-Montrachet is sourced from ten distinct plots surrounding the village of Puligny. These vineyards are densely planted, with approximately 10,000 vines per hectare, and the vines have an average age of 50 years. The soils in this area are predominantly limestone with a mix of clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the mineral complexity of the wines. The region’s continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cool nights, allows for a slow and balanced ripening of the Chardonnay grapes. In 2021, the growing season presented challenges, including frost and variable weather conditions, leading to reduced yields. However, the meticulous vineyard management practices employed by Jean-Louis ensured that the grapes harvested were of high quality, resulting in wines with notable intensity and freshness.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The winemaking process for the 2021 Puligny-Montrachet begins with hand-harvesting the Chardonnay grapes to preserve their integrity. Fermentation is carried out using natural yeasts, a practice that promotes the development of complex flavors and reflects the vineyard’s unique microbiome. The wine is fermented and aged in 228-liter oak barrels, with approximately 20% of the barrels being new oak. This judicious use of new oak imparts subtle spice and vanilla notes without overwhelming the wine’s inherent fruit character. The wine remains in barrel for a period that allows it to develop structure and complexity while maintaining its freshness. Throughout the aging process, the wine is monitored closely to ensure it achieves the desired balance and expression before bottling.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12%

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Jean-Louis Chavy Puligny-Montrachet displays a luminous pale gold color. On the nose, it offers expressive aromas of peach and nectarine, intertwined with subtle honeyed notes and a hint of steely minerality. The palate is taut and stylish, featuring a tight core of ripe stone fruits complemented by a lacing of steely acidity. The wine culminates in a long, finely tuned finish, showcasing its purity and precision.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Puligny-Montrachet pairs exquisitely with dishes that highlight its elegance and acidity. Consider serving it alongside risotto with asparagus and St. George’s mushrooms, where the wine’s freshness complements the earthiness of the dish. It also harmonizes well with seafood, such as seared scallops or grilled lobster, and creamy poultry dishes, where its acidity can balance the richness. Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert also make for delightful companions.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this wine, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 10-12°C (50-54°F). Utilizing medium-sized white wine glasses will allow the aromas to concentrate and enhance the tasting experience. Decanting is not necessary; however, allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes after pouring can help open up its aromatic profile.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2021 Puligny-Montrachet is approachable in its youth, offering vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity. However, with proper cellaring in a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures, it has the potential to develop additional complexity over the next 5 to 7 years. As it matures, expect the emergence of richer, more nuanced flavors and a rounder mouthfeel, with the mineral aspects becoming more pronounced.