Wines Unspecified Benjamin Leroux - Abbaye de Morgeot - 2020

Benjamin Leroux's 2020 Cuvée Abbaye de Morgeot Premier Cru is a white Burgundy crafted primarily from Chardonnay grapes, emblematic of the region's dedication to excellence. The "Abbaye de Morgeot" designation refers to a celebrated climat within Chassagne-Montrachet, although the specific subregion is not listed here. Nonetheless, this Premier Cru bottling benefits from old vines rooted in clay-limestone soils, which impart structure and minerality to the wine. The 2020 vintage, marked by a warm and dry growing season in Burgundy, has contributed ripeness and concentration, while Leroux's approach in the cellar—involving gentle pressing, fermentation in oak barrels (often with a restrained use of new oak), and patient ageing on lees—ensures complexity and finesse in the finished product.

The Burgundy region is world-renowned for its terroir-driven approach, where vineyards are meticulously divided into climats—precise plots with unique geological and climatic characteristics. Burgundy's continental climate, with cool winters and warm summers, is tempered by regular rainfall and significant diurnal temperature variation, ideal for Chardonnay. The region's soils, rich with limestone and marl, encourage elegant minerality and drive in the wines. Burgundy's historical focus on parcel-by-parcel vinification has resulted in a patchwork of styles, with each Premier Cru vineyard offering distinctive expression and depth.

This style of white Burgundy, structured yet vibrant, pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Classic matches include grilled or roasted poultry with creamy morel sauce, seared scallops, or a traditional chicken in vin jaune and morels. Local Burgundian specialties such as jambon persillé or a rich comté cheese complement the wine's generous texture and balancing acidity. For a simpler pairing, try it with roast monkfish or even a lobster thermidor, letting the wine play off both the sweetness of the seafood and richness of the preparation.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Cuvée Abbaye de Morgeot at a temperature of 11-13°C. Decant for 20 to 30 minutes to allow its subtle oak and minerality to unfold, and enjoy in large Burgundy glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic range and silky palate. This is a wine with ageing potential, but already approachable in its youth with careful handling.