Chassagne-Montrachet, Domaine Philippe Colin, 2019

A wonderful set of wines here as ever from the Bourgogne Blanc right through to the Grand Cru Chevalier Montrachet. Yields were down on 2018 10-20% (so a normal size vintage as 2018 was a monster). No hail or diseases during the growing season, and whilst carrying up to 13.8% natural alcohol when harvested there were high levels of tartaric acid too so this and no battonage has ensured a freshness in the wines. They have a lot of concentration and structure, but great vivacity, focus and definition. Emmanuel suggests 2019 has the “matier” and intensity of 2014 with more of the generosity of the warmer vintages, definitely “Grand Year”. Our tough choice was to decide which and how many of the glorious and still amazing value 1er Cru Chassagnes to include in our En Primeur offering.
"From 15 plots in the centre of the village and on the Puligny side. 25% new oak, this was already in bottle when tasted in November. Smoky mandarin nose, stone fruits, pear skin and white flowers. Palate is intense but lively, with a weight of dry extract and vein of acid, plenty of ‘matier’ and richness, very layered, powerful, and with a richness one doesn't expect at village level. Particularly impressive this year." Tom Harrow, Wine Guru
"Pale bright colour. 25% new wood, but mostly in 450 and 500 litre barrels, which is now the tendency here. This has a lovely grip behind, some fleshy white fruit with all the components properly in line. Good length to complete this Chassagne. Tasted: September 2020" 90 pts, Jasper Morris MW