Puligny-Montrachet
Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France
Sandwiched between Chassagne-Montrachet to the south and Meursault to the north in the Côte de Beaune, Puligny-Montrachet is universally acknowledged as the true heartland of fine Chardonnay. This revered, historic white wine appellation boasts as many as 17 Premier Cru climats and four iconic Grands Crus, the best wines of which can defy description.
Since 1879 the village of Puligny has enjoyed the distinction of having the name of its finest vineyard, Le Montrachet, appended to it (ditto neighbouring Chassagne). To many, the particular terroir of Puligny confers on its wines a subtle refinement over those of its neighbours. Puligny Chardonnays are typically more concentrated and complex than those of Chassagne, more delicate and refined than those of Meursault.
In addition to the cru vineyards of the appellation, Puligny-Montrachet contains 114ha of vineyards deemed to make ‘village’ quality AOC wine, the best of which offer a more accessible glimpse into the vinous wonders of this territory than the rarefied examples of Le Montrachet et al, and at a fraction of the price. Though overwhelmingly a white wine appellation, Puligny also contains a small number of vineyards devoted to Pinot Noir – typically those adjoining the hamlet of Blagny.
