Domaine Leflaive Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru 2023

Domaine Leflaive is one of the most respected white wine estates in Burgundy and a pioneer of biodynamic farming on the Côte de Beaune. Chevalier-Montrachet is a grand cru site whose Chardonnay grows on thin soils over active limestone, high on the slope where drainage is sharp and the vines struggle in the best sense. That geology and exposure are the source of the wine's mineral drive and long, saline finish, while the cool climate keeps acidity firm and ripening measured. The wine ages twelve months in oak barrels, a slow élevage in which gentle oxygen exchange through the wood and extended time on the fine lees build texture, subtle toast and a creamy depth, with malolactic conversion rounding the acidity. Expect a pale, bright colour and a nose of white peach and citrus lifted by hazelnut, toasted bread and fine oak. The palate is concentrated and precise, its fruit framed by measured oak, a full, creamy centre and a stony, saline finish of real length. This is a grand cru white built to age, powerful yet taut. Serve at around 12 to 13 degrees in a large glass, and give a young vintage air.