Wines Puligny-Montrachet Domaine Fernand & Laurent Pillot - Noyers Brets - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Fernand & Laurent Pillot’s Puligny-Montrachet “Cuvée Noyers Brets” 2023 is an exceptional white Burgundy, crafted exclusively from Chardonnay, as per the stringent requirements of the Puligny-Montrachet AOC. The 2023 vintage displays the poise typical of the house, with a harmonious balance between lively acidity and textured minerality. The terroir of Noyers Brets is reflected in a wine of delicate floral notes, citrus zest, ripe white peach, and a subtle touch of hazelnut, underscored by precise, refined oak integration. Fermentation and élevage typically take place in oak barrels, a portion of which are new, allowing the wine to express both structure and finesse without overpowering the inherent purity of the fruit.

The village of Puligny-Montrachet, nestled within the Côte de Beaune, is renowned worldwide for its limestone-rich soils interspersed with marl and clay, providing perfect drainage and imbuing the wines with their celebrated mineral tension and elegance. The region’s temperate continental climate, modulated by cooling breezes and gentle slopes, extends the ripening period, ensuring depth and complexity in the finished product. Historically, Puligny-Montrachet stands at the pinnacle of Chardonnay terroir, consistently producing wines recognised for their class, longevity, and nuanced aromatic palette.

This Puligny-Montrachet pairs beautifully with refined cuisine. Its subtle richness and fresh acidity make it an ideal companion for dishes such as roasted lobster with beurre blanc, pan-seared scallops, or a classic poached sole in a light cream sauce. For traditional regional fare, consider pairing with a delicate poulet de Bresse à la crème or a mild chèvre from Burgundy. The wine’s complexity also makes it a superb match for mushroom risotto or gently flavoured sushi.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled at a temperature of 11-13°C. Allow the bottle to breathe for 15–20 minutes after opening to fully reveal its aromatic intricacies. This cuvée is delicious in its youth for its vitality, but will reward a few years of cellaring with added depth and complexity.