1998 Paul Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet Champ Gains, 3-bottle Lot

Paul Pillot is a a third generation winemaker in Chassagne-Montrachet, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. The 30-acre domaine has Premier Cru vineyards primarily in Chassagne-Montrachet, Saint-Aubin and Santenay. Of special note are the Premier Cru Chassagne-Montrachets La Romanee, Grandes Ruchottes, Les Caillerets, La Grande Montagne, Les Champs Gains and Clos Saint-Jean. Decanter has complimented many of the domaine’s wines, calling them “mouthwatering (with) impeccable balance.”

Les Champs Gains is an 11-acre Premier Cru vineyard in Chassagne-Montrachet in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. It is one of 51 Premier Crus in the appellation and it lies between 250 and 300 meters. The vineyard faces southeast. Robert M. Parker Jr. has written that “Chassagne-Montrachet is a treasure trove for outstanding Premier Cru vineyards. In fact, certain Premiers Crus…often achieve Grand Cru status in quality if not in name.”

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.