Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru
Situation
Côte de Beaune
Level
AOC Grand cru
Grape variety
Chardonnay
A legend, a symbol, an element of Burgundian heritage… the Grand Cru Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet, like its neighbour Montrachet, embodies all of those. Located in the commune of Chassagne-Montrachet, adjacent to the equally famed Bâtard-Montrachet, this Climat is smaller in surface area.
"Criots" means "chalk" in the local dialect, which refers to the calcareous soil found in this plot. As for the name "Montrachet", it is derived from "Mont Rachaz" (1252) or "Mont Chauve", in reference to the stony, barren nature of the hill. In Old French, "râche" meant "chauve" (bald).
Tasting
Intense yet subtle nose that combines scents of nuts, dried fruit, white flowers and spices with hints of honey and butter. Full bodied and rich on the palate, this wine is endowed with lovely mineral structure that gives it a great deal of sophistication. Long, pure finish.
Food/wine pairing
Taste this wine with finely prepared fine fish and crustaceans, foie gras, or with poultry and white meats, roasted or served in a cream sauce.
Recipe suggestion: filet of pikeperch with beurre blanc sauce
Serving and keeping
Serve between 12 and 14°C (53-57°F).
Aging potential: 5 to 10 years and more.
Vintages
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The vineyard
Soil: Brown calcareous clay soil with a high proportion of scree
Vinification
Harvest: Handpicked
Fermentation: Oak barrels (40% to 50% new oak)
Ageing
Ageing: On fine lees in oak barrels
Ageing time: 14 to 16 months