Scattered throughout Burgundy are some very exciting Premier Cru vineyards. They are often quite small and don't belong to big names so they frequently fail to get the recognition they deserve.
Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru La Dent de Chien is one. It sits above Le Montrachet and not surprisingly often produces wine of a very similar style.
Even less well known is Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Vide Bourse. Vide Bourse, literally "empty purse", is a small 1.32 hectare vineyard directly below the Grand Cru Batard-Montrachet.
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Click map to enlarge. Vide Bourse is in blue |
Jasper Morris MW says "The soil is relatively heavy but full of small stones, providing excellent drainage and giving some raciness to the wine which is one of the more full-bodied Chassagne premier crus. In many ways it is a 'petit' Batard, ready to drink rather earlier than the grand cru."
There are very few makers, and even fewer owners, of this elusive vineyard. We are fortunate to have Fernand and Laurent Pillot in our portfolio who own a substantial 0.45 ha plot (about 1/3 of the total area).
Until the end of this week you may purchase the Vide-Bourse, as well as all other 2017's from Pillot, at a 20% Pre Arrival Discount instead of the usual 15%.
Domaine Fernand and Laurent Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru
Vide-Bourse 2017
Normally $166.95
Pre Arrival Price $141.95
Special Pre Arrival Price this week $133.56
We are too early for reviews of the 2017's but Vide-Bourse is always on of the first Pillot wines to sell out at the domaine. This is a vineyard I think all Burgundy lovers should at least taste.
The vines here are about 50 years of age. The domaine's parcel of vines is situated a few meters from the Grand Cru Batard-Montrachet. The soil is clay-limestone and is composed of little stones, aiding drainage in wet conditions. This wonderful position produces a rich and enchanting wine.
Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru 'Vide Bourse' opens delicately with a rich, ample body - both elegant and complex. It has a long and flowing palate with citrus and pear flavors and finely integrated oak. Will reach its potential with 3-10 years ageing.
All wines are available at a 20% Pre Arrival Discount until the end of this week. To view our original offer click here. Place your order
by email to luke@grandmillesime.com.au or phone. You are welcome to mix and match as you please.
Cheers,
Darren