Wines Unspecified Domaine Henri Boillot - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Henri Boillot’s 2016 Premier Cru Burgundy white epitomises the finesse and complexity for which top-tier Burgundian Chardonnay is so renowned. Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, this wine benefits from grapes meticulously selected from Premier Cru parcels, typically on the slopes of the Côte de Beaune where Domaine Boillot is a benchmark estate. The 2016 vintage experienced a challenging growing season, marked by late frosts and a sunny, warm summer, resulting in wines of concentration and striking freshness. Vinification is carried out with precision, employing careful hand harvesting, gentle pressing, and fermentation in French oak barrels—often with a proportion of new oak to enhance complexity without overpowering the wine’s purity of fruit.

The greater Burgundy region possesses a remarkable diversity of soils, particularly famously chalky and clay-limestone-rich terroirs, which contribute greatly to the energy and minerality found in its white wines. The semi-continental climate, with cold winters and warm, relatively dry summers, allows Chardonnay to express vibrant acidity and nuanced aromas. Bourgogne’s storied viticultural history, deeply rooted for centuries, continues to uphold the principle that site expression, or ‘terroir’, remains at the heart of the wine’s identity.

For pairing, a Premier Cru white Burgundy from Domaine Henri Boillot offers superb versatility. Its layered notes of white peach, citrus blossom, almond, and subtly integrated oak suit dishes such as pan-seared scallops, a classic roast Bresse chicken with morel cream sauce, or even a richly textured seafood risotto. Regional matches such as Burgundy’s classic ‘jambon persillé’ or a mild, nutty Comté cheese work beautifully, as do elegant preparations involving seasonal vegetables and beurre blanc.

For ideal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, at around 12-13°C. Decanting for 30 minutes can enhance its aromatic range, allowing notes of stone fruit, hazelnut, and a touch of flinty minerality to blossom. This wine has excellent ageing potential, but is already showing a harmonious balance of freshness and complexity in the glass.