2014 Domaine de la Pousse d'Or Puligny-Montrachet Les Caillerets

Domaine de la Pousse d’Or is a 40-acre estate in Volnay that traces its history to the 15th century. In old French the estate’s name meant “golden earth,” a testament to the reputation of its terroir. It was run for many years by the legendary Gerard Potel, whose wines were considered some of the best of Burgundy. Potel died in 1997 at age 61, and the estate was purchased by Patrick Landanger, who added vineyards and updated the facilities. Today the estate produces Grand Cru and Premier Cru, notably Volnays, a Pommard, a Santenay and Cortons. And it is still highly regarded by Burgundy collectors. Its wines often earn ratings of 95 pts and above.

Le Cailleret is a 7.8-acre Premier Cru vineyard in the appellation of Puligny-Montrachet, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. Le Cailleret is just above the Grand Cru Le Montrachet. Burgundy writer Clive Coates notes that at its best, Le Cailleret and its diminutive neighbor Les Demoiselles “make exquisite wines: not as powerful as Le Montrachet itself, but of pure breed, excellent grip and beautiful balance.”

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.