Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières Etienne Sauzet 1997

Created in 1903, the Domaine Etienne Sauzet has been producing Montrachet since the 1993 vintage. Gérard Boudot, (married to Etienne Sauzet’s grand-daughter) has managed it since 1974 and improved the domaine from the mid-1980s. Limited yields, harvesting as late as possible and classic vinification marked by débourbage (which allows very fine sur lie aging) contribute to creating wines of a very consistent and an exemplary finesse, unanimously hailed by French and foreign wine lovers. Since 1989, following a division of the domaine, Gérard Boudot, has also been trading and buying grape must to complete his production, without affecting quality. The domaine extends over 9 hectares.

Legend has it that at night, the feu-follets (will-o'-the-wisps) and other spirits come to inhabit this central plot overlooking the village of Puligny-Montrachet, which is where the name "Folatières" comes from. Etienne Sauzet has delivered one of the most brilliant interpretations of this legendary premier cru. In this limestone Bathonian-age soil, the Chardonnay grape has found its ideal terroir. There is immense concentration in the mouth, but without any heaviness, thanks to the acidity of this terroir. Starting with white flowers and hazelnut in its early years, it develops towards wax and honey after 10 years of cellaring.