2006 Etienne Sauzet Puligny-Montrachet Les Perrières

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.”

Les Perrieres is a 21-acre Premier Cru vineyard in Puligny-Montrachet, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. The vineyard includes the 10-acre Clos de la Mouchere, a monopole belonging to Domaine Jean Boillot. Les Perrieres is between Les Combettes, Les Referts and Le Clavoillon.

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.