2002 Louis Jadot Domaine Gagey Beaune Bressandes Blanc

Maison Louis Jadot is one of Burgundy’s most respected negociants. Founded in 1859 by the Jadot family, the prestige and quality of the estate’s wines were well established in the 19th century. The family continued buying highly desirable vineyards in the 20th century. In 1985 the estate was sold to Rudy Kopf, Jadot’s American importer. Located in Beaune, the estate has 336 acres of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Gamay. Though all the maison’s wines are known for their high quality, signature wines are the Bonnes Mares, Chambertin-Close de Beze, Chevalier-Montrachet les Demoiselles, Corton-Charlemagne, Le Montrachet and Musigny. Pierre-Henry Gagey is president.

Les Bressandes is a 50-acre Premier Cru vineyard on the northwestern edge the Beaune appellation, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. Les Bressandes is near the top of the slope. Clive Coates has written that wine from Les Bressandes and neighboring vineyards “have an extra roundness, richness and style” compared with some slightly more northern Beaune Premier Crus.

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.