Wines Chassagne-Montrachet Lucien Le Moine - Morgeot - 2017

Viniou Reviews

The Lucien Le Moine Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru “Cuvée Morgeot” 2017 is a brilliant expression of Côte de Beaune white Burgundy. Crafted primarily from Chardonnay, this cuvée represents the finesse and complexity that makes Chassagne-Montrachet so renowned. The 2017 vintage benefited from favourable climatic conditions, allowing fully ripe grapes to retain their natural acidity and intensity. Morgeot, a celebrated premier cru vineyard, is known for its clay-limestone soils which impart both opulence and minerality. Lucien Le Moine’s approach to winemaking is meticulous, with minimal intervention, gentle pressing, and fermentation in oak barrels, most of which are new or finely selected for subtlety. This results in a wine with intricate layers of citrus, white peach, and a touch of hazelnut, supported by a beautiful, flinty backbone and a long, saline finish.

Chassagne-Montrachet is located just south of Beaune in Burgundy, a region famed for its complex geology and centuries-old winemaking heritage. The microclimate here is generally cool but benefits from optimal sun exposure on gentle slopes, ideal for ripening Chardonnay while preserving freshness. The limestone-rich soils contribute distinctive minerality and lend the wines their remarkable precision and aging ability. Historically, Chassagne-Montrachet, alongside neighbouring Puligny, has been synonymous with some of the world’s greatest white wines, sought after for their depth and balance.

To showcase the harmony and structure of this Premier Cru, pair it with delicate seafood such as scallops in beurre blanc, lobster thermidor, or poached turbot. It matches exquisitely with roasted chicken in cream sauce and regional classics like escargots à la bourguignonne. For cheese, a creamy Brie de Meaux or Saint-Marcellin will highlight its supple texture.

Serve at 12–14°C to reveal its aromatic complexity and elegant mouthfeel. Decant for thirty minutes if possible to open up the bouquet. The wine can be enjoyed now but will further evolve gracefully with several years of cellaring.