2003 Etienne Sauzet Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet

Etienne Sauzet, in Puligny-Montrachet, is, in the words of Robert M. Parker Jr., “one of the most serious white winemaking estates in Burgundy.” The 20-acre estate was founded in the mid-20th century by Etienne Sauzet, who inherited a few acres and acquired more in the 1950s. The domaine has remained in the family and is now run by Gerard Boudot, husband of the founder’s granddaughter. The estate makes Grand Crus, Premier Crus and Bourgognes. Its signature Chardonnays are the Grand Crus Montrachet, Chevalier- Montrachet, Batard-Montrachet and Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet. It is also noted for its fine Premier Crus. Burgundy writer Clive Coates has called Boudot “one of Puligny’s most gifted winemakers.”

Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet is the smallest of the four Puligny-Montrachet Grand Cru Chardonnay vineyards at 9.1 acres. It is on the northeast slope of Puligny-Montrachet Grand Cru appellation. Burgundy writer Clive Coates has noted that at its best, Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet “has a fatness, a honeyed or honeysuckle fragrance and certain delicacy.” The largest landholders are Leflaive, 2.7 acres; Ramonet, 1.4 acres; and Vincent Girardin, 1.2 acres.

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.