1990 Montrachet
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2017 Chevalier Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive, Burgundy, France
The 2017 vintage in Burgundy presented vignerons with a myriad of challenges, yet from the crucible of unpredictability emerged some extraordinary offerings. Among these, the 2017 Chevalier Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive is a beacon of excellence, indicative of a deft touch amidst climatic caprice.
Elixir of the Climatic Kaleidoscope
In the hands of the skilled winemakers at Domaine Leflaive, the topsy-turvy weather patterns of 2017 have been magisterially sculpted into a Chardonnay of noteworthy poise. The tumultuous frost of spring and ensuing summer warmth offered an abbreviated window for grape maturation, yet this prestigious plot within Chevalier-Montrachet has yielded a nectar that captures the essence of such extremes.
The 2017 Chevalier Montrachet sustains a bright golden hue in the glass—a prelude to the sensorial ballet to follow. On approach, one is greeted with an aristocratic bouquet where citrus zest entwines with subtle flora and wet stone minerality—a hallmark of this esteemed terroir.
A Noble Investment Choir
On the palate, this vintage dances with a precision and depth that belays its youth; succulent stone fruit notes pirouette amongst accents of toasted almond and honeycomb. It is not merely expressive; it is eloquent in its conveyance of provenance and season. The wine's balance whispers a promise of longevity and gracious evolution over time, assuring collectors and investors alike of its latent potential for growth.
For enthusiasts seeking an anchor amongst their portfolio's holdings—or for those who desire to resonate with the symphonies of great white Burgundy—the 2017 Chevalier Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive should not be overlooked. Its classically refined structure intertwined with charismatic expressiveness destines it for praise in future annals of viticulture prestige.
As an investment piece, it offers not just return potential but also the cache that only wines of this calibre can provide. Indeed, like any asset bearing complexity and rarity, the 2017 Chevalier Montrachet belongs to those who understand the value hidden within each carefully crafted bottle—a vintage certainly poised for commendation as its narrative unfolds in cellars worldwide.
Market price (USD)
$101,500.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
6928.33
Scores and tasting notes
The 1990 Le Montrachet exhibits considerable opulence, as well as a tell-tale nose of coconut, buttered apples, and smoky, toasty new oak. Magnificently deep, expansive, and rich, with moderate acidity, it should prove to be a sensational DRC Le Montrachet. It is capable of lasting 15-20 years. The DRC was unhappy with their 1992 and will not produce any Montrachet. Those millionaires lucky enough to have access to this rarity, frequently the most concentrated Chardonnay made in the world, should be pleased with the 1991 and 1990. NOTE: I recently had the good fortune to taste all the DRC Le Montrachet's from 1979 through 1989. I thought the 1986, followed by 1983, 1979, and 1989, to be show-stoppers. The 1989 has the potential to be another 1986. The 1983 is phenomenally powerful and intense. I also enjoyed the 1982 and 1985, although the latter wine is backward, with high acidity and a monolithic personality. It will be interesting to see how much complexity develops. If you are a multi-millionaire, and feel compelled to taste the most lavish Chardonnays in the world, these wines are obligatory purchases. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 25 October 1993