2017 Maison Champy Chassagne-Montrachet Les Chenevottes

Maison Champy claims to be the oldest Burgundy negociant still in business. It was founded in 1720 and over the centuries it has owned or represented such prestigious appellations as the Clos de Tart Monopole and some prime Montrachet parcels. The Beaune-based business owns 15.6 acres of vineyards in Beaune, Clos Vougeot, Pommard and Savigny-Les-Beaune, from which it makes wines under its own domaine label. Champy also produces a range of wines as a negociant. Owned by the Meurgey family for nearly 300 years, it was sold to Louis Jadot in 1990 when the extended family could not reach agreement on how to proceed with the business. A few years later part of the business was bought back by the some family members, with Jadot keeping the lion’s share. Winemaker for the negociant is Dimitri Bazas, a Greek expat who learned Burgundian winemaking from Henri Boillot, among others. Bazas is considered a talented winemaker. Champy is admired for its adherence to traditional winemaking and estate management, and the wide range of wines offered.

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.