2008 Chevalier Montrachet
By Domaine Leflaive
2006 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive, Burgundy, France
The 2006 vintage in Burgundy stands distinctively as a year of intricacy and finesse, particularly for the cherubic but capricious Chardonnay grapes that define the essence of the region's prestige. At the helm of this intricate voyage through vintage differences is Domaine Leflaive, whose 2006 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet elegantly encapsulates the season's unique expression.
A Beacon of Burgundian Brilliance
An emblem of Domaine Leflaive's devout craftsmanship, the 2006 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet presents itself with a balletic grace in the glass. Esteemed investors and connoisseurs alike discern that 2006 was not without its challenges; a cooler August succeeded by a warm September allowed a precise picking window which Domaine Leflaive adeptly navigated. The result: grapes imbued with a poised balance between sugar and acidity, heralding a wine of sophistication and subtlety.
The Signature of the Season
The nuanced palate of this particular Burgundian nectar reveals understated hints of honeycomb and toasted almonds, an orchestra where no single flavor outplays another. A mineral core - so reflective of the well-drained limestone soil - sustains the weightless complexity of this vintage. On the nose, one encounters an idyllic wisp of floral elegance interwoven with layers that speak of citrus orchards on a spring afternoon.
As it has matured, the 2006 from Domaine Leflaive unveils an evolved character. The integration of oak is so deft it whispers wisdom rather than declaring age. The palate extends towards a finish that resonates with depth and persistence, envisaging a splendid aging potential yet to unfurl completely.
The Investment Vivant
For astute investors looking to enrich their portfolios, this 2006 Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet acts not only as liquid artistry but also an asset worth its weight in oenological gold. Embracing the opportunity to invest in such a vintage carries the allure of exclusivity; after all, these bottles hail from a finite crop nurtured under the gaze of one season's sun.
In summary, embracing an allocation of this spectacular 2006 Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive would be wise for those poised to appreciate its maturation journey. The narrative this wine weaves through its evolution in bottle is every bit as captivating as its tasting profile—a harmonious blend where climate, craft, and terroir sing in unison.
Market price (USD)
$13,510.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
790
Scores and tasting notes
This magnum of the 2008 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru is an original release, and it is a little more developed than the "reconditioned" 750-milliliter bottle I reviewed last year. Offering up aromas of mandarin orange, marmalade, honeycomb, fresh pastry, white flowers and vanilla pod, it's medium to full-bodied, ample and penetrating, with lively acids and a long, exotic finish. While this is drinking well, it's a little open-knit for a 12-year-old Chevalier-Montrachet, especially in magnum, and—as with most Leflaive white Burgundies from this era of endemic premature oxidation—I wouldn't bet on it making old bones. In that respect, it was interesting to see what a difference the domaine's reconditioning had made to the last example of this wine that I encountered.
William Kelley - The Wine Advocate, 30 April 2021