Chassagne Montrachet Vielles Vignes Rouge 2019/20, Domaine Fernand and Lauren Pillot

The wine expresses itself in harmonious lines. A round wine with a warm body, coupled with white fruit aromas and finely integrated oak.

The Pillot family have been growing grapes in Chassagne-Montrachet since the 19th century. Laurent, who has been in charge of the domaine for over ten years, is the 5th generation. Today, the domaine comprises nearly 15 hectares and covers over 22 different appellations. Their modern, temperature controlled winery, on the outskirts of the village, was built in 1995, but still appears state-of-the-art and has recently been extended. He has now been joined by his young son, Adrien, who is full of great ideas – having worked in South Africa (Hamilton-Russell), New Zealand, Oregon and Australia – including longer elevages for some of the white wines.

The grapes are hand-picked. Pressed, the juice is then fermented in French oak barrels (25% new). The wine is barrel aged until the following summer. In this way, the wine has time to integrate and confirm its personality. Bottled at the winery after aging for 11-12 months.