1995 Montrachet
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2018 Chevalier Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive, Burgundy, France
The respected 2018 Chevalier Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive is a testament to the precision and finesse that hallmark this Grand Cru's terroir. Recognised for its age-worthy Chardonnays that manifest the sublime characteristics of Burgundy, Domaine Leflaive's craftsmanship is meticulous, bringing forward a vintage that stands out in the echelons of fine wine investment.
Harmonious Terroir, An Exemplary Year
The 2018 vintage in Burgundy was characterised by an amiable climate that granted vignerons an excellent growing season. Despite initial concerns about meteorological extremes, the resultant poise found in this Chevalier Montrachet is striking. The ploughing of soils and biodynamic practices at Domaine Leflaive encouraged deep vine roots to interact with the complex limestone substructure, yielding grapes of concentrated vigour.
A Vintage Defined by Balance
On the nose, this vintage emits a symphony of citrus zest and flinty minerality intertwined with seductive blossom notes. A palate replete with ripe pear, honeysuckle, and a delicate whiff of vanilla reveals itself upon tasting. One finds a commendable acidity that carries all elements forth in harmonious concert. It’s the notable structure and depth of flavour that conveys its stellar potential as a collector's piece.
The 2018 Chevalier Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive balances power and elegance in a way that only a superior Burgundy can. This particular year affords a touch more generosity on the palate, without forgoing the poise and longevity one anticipates from such a reputable estate.
Wise investors will appreciate both the immediate sensory rewards and the latent value appreciation potential encapsulated within this bottle. Whether held as a jewel in the crown of a burgeoning collection or positioned as a cornerstone investment asset, the 2018 Chevalier Montrachet is poised to deliver gratification to both palate and portfolio alike.
Market price (USD)
$116,000.00
12x75cl
Highest score
99
POP score
5001.05
Scores and tasting notes
Attentive and wealthy readers will note that I have revised my original, barrel sample-based score for the Domaine de la Romanee Conti's 1995 Montrachet (a 95-97+ in Issue #110). Simply put, this is a mind-boggling, virtually perfect wine. It displays breath-taking aromas of liquid minerals, creamed hazelnuts, candied chestnuts (marrons glaces), white flowers, anise, and buttered toast that seem to gain in expressiveness and intensity with time. On its utterly extraordinary palate layer upon layer of stones, straw, minerals, grilled bread, and sweet white flowers can be found. Oily, full-bodied, magnificently concentrated, and extracted, this is as complex a wine as I have ever had the honor to pour over my lips and palate. Perfectly balanced and structured for the long haul, this wine also possesses one of the longest and purist finishes I have ever encountered. A winemaking tour de force! Projected maturity: 2008-2025. The few men and women that have the contacts and resources to acquire the world's most esteemed white wine from one of this planet's most famous estates are very fortunate. Aubert de Villaine, the Domaine's director, has fashioned two extraordinary Montrachets that will be talked about, compared, fawned over, and hopefully drunk over the next few decades by those worthy and deserving enough. Tasting the 1995 and 1996 offerings is an unforgettable experience. Importer: Wilson Daniels, St. Helena, CA; (707) 963-9661.
Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 22 February 1998