Wines Puligny-Montrachet Domaine Comtes Lafon - Champ Gain - 2005

Viniou Reviews

The 2005 Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru “Champ Gain” from Domaine Comtes Lafon is an exemplary white Burgundy, representing both the mastery of this celebrated domaine and the unique characteristics of the Champ Gain vineyard. Crafted predominantly from Chardonnay, as is customary for Puligny-Montrachet, the wine benefits from old vines and meticulous vinification. Domaine Comtes Lafon is acclaimed for its limited yields and patient élevage, allowing extended contact with the lees to impart subtle complexity and a superbly integrated texture. The 2005 vintage was noted for its warm, dry summer, leading to grapes with excellent maturity, concentration, and remarkable aromatic clarity.

Puligny-Montrachet is situated in the Côte de Beaune, one of Burgundy’s most prestigious white wine territories. The region’s terroir is defined by limestone-rich soils with traces of clay and marl, which lend tension and minerality to the wines. Puligny's microclimate, with its alternating cool nights and sunny days, allows slow and even grape ripening, preserving vibrant acidity while developing nuanced flavours. The historical legacy of winemaking in this area dates back to Medieval monastic times, and Premier Cru vineyards such as Champ Gain are recognised for their ability to produce wines of refined structure and remarkable ageing potential.

This wine’s finesse and complexity pair beautifully with delicate dishes. Consider serving it alongside luxurious, subtly flavoured seafood such as turbot with beurre blanc, diver scallops seared with lemon butter, or lobster in a light cream sauce. Roast chicken with morel mushrooms or a veal blanquette will also complement its creamy texture and layered aromatics. For a more regional approach, a fine Comté cheese or a quenelle de brochet (pike dumpling) pays homage to Burgundy’s culinary heritage.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for 30 minutes to allow its bouquet of white flowers, toasted hazelnuts, and citrus to unfurl. Serve it slightly chilled, ideally at 11–13°C, to appreciate its full depth, minerality, and complexity. This is a wine for refined occasions, promising immense pleasure both now and with further cellaring.