Wines Puligny-Montrachet Vincent Bachelet - La Garenne - 2019

Vincent Bachelet's Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru "La Garenne" 2019 is a superb expression of Chardonnay from one of Burgundy's most esteemed white wine appellations. This Premier Cru hails from the celebrated eastern slopes of the Côte de Beaune, where the La Garenne vineyard is renowned for its well-drained calcareous soils and elevated exposure. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a warm, sunny growing season that yielded ripe, concentrated fruit with excellent natural acidity. In the cellar, careful vinification and sensitive ageing in oak barrels (typically a mixture of new and seasoned wood) have enhanced the wine’s texture while preserving its precision and energy. The result is a white Burgundy with expressive aromas of ripe citrus, white flowers and stone fruit, underpinned by delicate smoky and hazelnut nuances, alongside a taut mineral backbone and a lingering, elegant finish.

Puligny-Montrachet is situated in the heart of Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune, a region famous for producing some of the world’s finest Chardonnay. The area’s history stretches back centuries, with Puligny’s chalky, limestone-rich soils and cool continental climate providing ideal conditions for Chardonnay of great finesse and longevity. The Premier Cru vineyards, such as La Garenne, are particularly prized for their combination of poor, stony soils that bring complexity and their altitude, allowing grapes to retain acidity and aromatic freshness even in warmer years.

This wine’s structure and complexity make it an outstanding companion for refined dishes. Classic pairings include lobster or scallops in a light butter sauce, turbot or sole with beurre blanc, or roasted free-range chicken with morels. It will also shine alongside regional Burgundian specialities such as 'oeufs en meurette' (poached eggs in red wine sauce) if you fancy a twist. Mature cheeses like Comté or aged Gruyère are also splendid options.

To enjoy the full aromatic range and textural depth of this Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru, serve it lightly chilled, ideally at 11–13°C. Decanting for half an hour before serving can further enhance its complexity, especially if you are enjoying it in its youth.