Domaine Leflaive   Chevalier Montrachet

1997 Chevalier Montrachet

By Domaine Leflaive

1995 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive, Burgundy, France

The vintage of 1995 holds a special place in the annals of Burgundian lore, owing much to its favourable climatic patterns that resulted in wines of impressive longevity and complexity. In this splendid cohort, the 1995 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive emerges as a beacon of finesse and structure among the exquisite offerings of Burgundy's lauded patchwork of vineyards.

 

Refined Elegance: A Vision in White

Domaine Leflaive's expertise in harnessing the unique terroir of Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet has culminated in a Chardonnay with celebrated vigour and captivating depth. The 1995 vintage amplifies the quintessence of Domaine Leflaive's dedication to organic farming and meticulous vinification techniques that have become synonymous with their esteemed reputation.

 

Artistry in a Bottle: The Pinnacle of Terroir Expression

A sensory journey through the 1995 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet reveals layers of quince, candied citrus peel and a hint of toasted almonds. Evident too, is the vibrant acidity offering a backbone that elevates the crescendo of flavours and ensures a lingering finish reminiscent of Burgundy's gilded autumnal days.

This remarkable white wine encapsulates an impeccable balance, achieved through Domaine Leflaive's thoughtful nurturing of its vines and the distinct individuality granted by the season's cool nights and warm days during the prescription period for grape maturation. It is this precise climatic assemblage that ensured fruit of exceptional quality, paving the way for cellar-worthy white Burgundies like this very bottle.

As an advocate for astute investment in fine wines, one must look towards vintages with proven lineage and extraordinary composition — qualities undeniably evidenced in the 1995 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive. Therefore, it represents not only an indulgence for the senses but also a commendable addition to any connoisseur’s portfolio.

In summary, approaching nearly three decades since its birth, this enchanting vintage offers both tangible depth and intangible mystique—a hallmark of Domaine Leflaive's mastery and an exemplar vintage from one of Burgundy's most cherished appellations. For investors and collectors alike, securing this storied nectar straddles the intersection where pleasure meets provident foresight.

Market price (USD)

$20,220.00

12x75cl

Highest score

93

POP score

1273.85

Scores and tasting notes

93

From a warm, ripe vintage, the 1997 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru offers up aromas of dried white flowers, orange rind, confit citrus, iodine and freshly baked bread. On the palate, it's full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with chewy extract and a broad, expansive mid-palate, with ripe acids and a long, subtly exotic finish. If the 1998 Chevalier owes some exotic qualities to botrytis, the concentration and confit quality of the 1997 have more to do with passerillage. By the numbers, the wine attained 13.95% alcohol with a pH of 3.17.

William Kelley - The Wine Advocate, 31 July 2019

Vintage performance