Description
Domaine Bouard-Bonnefoy, Chassagne-Montrachet Two-Pack
Today’s tailor-made offering is a direct result of our rich and steadfast commitment to Domaine Bouard-Bonnefoy. Ever since our first visit several years ago, we’ve been convinced their Chassagne-Montrachet lineup was poised for major stardom amongst Burgundy circles so we’ve offered everything that’s come our way.
Our sneaking suspicion was dead on: In addition to the already-fervent demand for the region as a whole, the considerable precision and luxury of Bouard’s wines have attracted and thrilled droves of new customers. That’s why today’s specialty two-pack surely has SommSelect collectors buzzing because this marks the first time we’ve managed a simultaneous allocation of both Chassagne shades, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Furthermore, they’re from the return-to-classic-form 2021 vintage which promises sophisticated, superbly elegant drinking for years to come. Very limited amounts are available. Complimentary shipping on two packs.
Fabrice Bouard is a career-changer, having spent many years as a bodyguard for French dignitaries before turning to a life in wine. His wife, Carinne Bonnefoy, brings the hereditary chops as the fourth generation of vintners from Chassagne. They farm roughly eight hectares of vines concentrated in Chassagne-Montrachet, most of them old-vine sites passed down from Carinne’s family; her father enjoys considerable renown in the village for his skills with a plow!
Bouard’s small domaine was originally designed to supply locals, friends, and family with hand-crafted wines. That traditional farmstead feel remains intact today. Descending into their charmingly antiquated cellar feels like stepping back in time, as does the operations: Fabrice continues to utilize a hand-cranked wooden press, and the family bottles, corks, and labels each wine by hand.
Chassagne-Montrachet Blanc
The family’s Chassagne blanc comes from four sustainably farmed parcels across the village, the most notable hailing from within “La Bergerie,” about 250 meters south of Grand Cru Bâtard-Montrachet. These Chardonnay vines here are young and full of vigor. In the cellar, fermentation occurs with natural yeasts and aging is completed without the overt influence of oak (20% new). The domaine produces just over 20 barrels each year, but what they lack in size is made up for in incredible quality and attention to detail. The result is a classic style that is refreshingly reductive with just enough succulent, rich layers in its youth. This 2021 is still in its “baby fat” stage, but it’s undeniably delicious and poised for a long and fascinating evolution.
Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge
Bouard’s Chassagne Rouge (Pinot Noir) vines are scattered across eight sustainably farmed parcels near the borders of Puligny and Santenay. The vast majority of them push beyond 50 years of age which is why “Vieilles Vignes” is proudly displayed on today’s 2021 label. In the cellar, fermentation occurs with natural yeasts and aging is completed without the overt influence of oak (25% new). After 30 minutes of air, the slight reduction blows away and this quickly evolves into a deep and soulful Pinot oozing with charm. It’s loaded with tense, just-ripened berries, savory hints of crunchy blue/purple flowers, and a warming core of baking spice. This will be fully firing by the end of 2023, and that window will stay open for years.
