Bouchard Père & Fils : Montrachet Grand cru Domaine 2019

Bouchard’s holding here is superb: 0.90ha on the edge of the Puligny side at midslope between Ramonet and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. In 2019, Bouchard emphasised the richness by picking this parcel last. Ripe apples, white flowers and even a touch of honey appear on the nose, while the texture on the palate is unctuous and deep without being heavy. There is still enough freshness to keep this lively through the intensely long finish.

This is still a bit closed on the nose, but on the palate it ripples with ripe-apricot and orange character. Dense and rich, almost to the point of being unctuous, although this is properly dry. Serious tannin structure behind the lavish exterior which, together with the fresh acidity, keeps this on course through the very generous finish. Drink or hold.

The 2019 Montrachet Grand Cru is very intense on the nose. Beautifully defined and focused, with fleeting touches of orange pith and oyster shell, this unfurls beautifully. The palate is exquisitely defined, lightly spiced and powerful, yet paradoxically weightless. It fans out effortlessly on the finish, in spite of a bit of alcohol to contend with. Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting.