2001 Chevalier Montrachet
By Domaine Leflaive
1999 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive, Burgundy, France
In the tapestry of revered Burgundian whites, the 1999 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive emerges with a compelling narrative. A vintage that has gracefully matured over two decades, it encapsulates an alluring snapshot of the esteemed terroir and a stellar winemaking legacy. The unique conditions of 1999, marked by a relatively cool August followed by an unseasonably warm September, created a harvest that was both challenging and rewarding with its late maturation.
The Signature of a Remarkable Terroir
Domaine Leflaive's mastery of biodynamic principles is evident in the sublime expression of chardonnay harvested from the limited Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet appellation. With mere hectares contributing to its production, this particular patch of land captures a microcosm of Burgundy's intricate soil diversity. The juxtaposition of mineral-laden undertones with vibrant acidity portrays the winery's proficiency in expressing these geological nuances.
An Odyssey of Flavour and Investment Promise
The 1999 vintage presents a precious investment opportunity. This fine wine unveils a bouquet where white flowers meet ripe pear and honeycomb; on the palate, complexity abounds - citrus zest converses with toasted almond and a wisp of vanilla. It is a testament to the ageing potential of Domaine Leflaive's wines, travelling through time to reveal layers upon layers of depth and elegance.
Seamlessly blending opulence with precision, it is now showing its pedigree with aplomb. The charming vibrancy which greets you at first sip gradually unravels into a seductively long finish signifying not just an excellent drinking window but also an enviable cellar addition. A sure-footed choice for connoisseurs seeking to diversify their portfolio or those captivated by the legacy of Burgundian whites.
Balance, in this case, is not merely about flavour equilibrium but extends to its significance as an investment wine. The 1999 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive is an evocative articulation of its birth year—a vintage whose allure will continue to unfold for those fortunate enough to experience it. An acquisition for perceptive investors and collectors alike.
Market price (GBP)
£10,950.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
782.14
Scores and tasting notes
Leflaive's 2001 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru emerged as one of the real sleepers of this tasting, bursting from the glass with an expressive and botrytis-inflected bouquet that mingles scents of grilled peaches and confit citrus with nuances of barley sugar, petrol and freshly baked bread. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, ample and enveloping, with excellent depth at the core, impressive vibrancy and a long, precise finish. Like the 2000 Chevalier, the more concentrated 2001 is in its plenitude of expression and makes for immensely pleasurable drinking, though readers with a lower tolerance for botrytis-derived exotica—something that, within limits, I tend to embrace as a facet of vintage expression—will like it less than I did. By the numbers, the 2001 boasts 13.66% alcohol and a pH of 3.40.
William Kelley - The Wine Advocate, 31 July 2019