1996 Jean-Marc Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet Les Chenevottes

Jean-Marc Pillot is a fourth-generation winemaker in Chassagne-Montrachet, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. He worked with his father, Jean, until the mid-1990s, when he took over the estate, expanding it to 35 acres. Jean-Marc Pillot produces many Premier Cru whites in Chassagne-Montrachet, as well as a few Premier Cru Chassagne-Montrachet reds, including Clos Saint-Jean, Les Macherelles and Morgeot. Since taking over from his father, Jean-Marc has built a new cellar and updated the domaine. Clive Coates notes that “These are very good wines.”

Les Chenevottes is a 23-acre Premier Cru vineyard in the appellation of Chassagne-Montrachet, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. The vineyards faces nearly due east. Domaines with parcels are Michel Colin-Deleger, Richard Fontaine-Gagnard, Jean-Noel Gagnard, Chateau de la Maltroye, Bernard Moreau, Jean and Jean-Marc Pillot.

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.