Wines Bâtard Montrachet Domaine Henri Boillot - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Henri Boillot’s 2016 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is a true jewel of Burgundy’s prestigious white wines. Crafted from exclusively Chardonnay grapes, this Grand Cru reveals the exceptional character expected from such an esteemed terroir. The 2016 vintage was marked by spring frosts and a cool beginning, followed by a warm summer that provided excellent ripening conditions. Careful hand-harvesting and traditional vinification in oak barrels, with extended lees ageing, have contributed to a wine of remarkable texture and complexity. This Bâtard-Montrachet unfurls a bouquet of ripe orchard fruits, citrus, subtle white flowers, toasted almonds and a delicate chalky minerality. On the palate, it is opulent yet precise, harmoniously balanced by vibrant acidity, with a lingering, noble finish.

La Côte de Beaune is renowned as one of the world’s greatest regions for Chardonnay, and Bâtard-Montrachet sits in a storied corridor between Puligny and Chassagne. The unique mosaic of limestone-rich soils, with their excellent drainage, fosters wines of intensity, finesse, and longevity. The climate here is semi-continental, offering cool springs and warm, sunny summers which allow Chardonnay to fully express its potential. The history of this Grand Cru dates back to the medieval era, and today it remains a benchmark for white Burgundy, prized for its concentration, texture, and capacity to age gracefully.

Pair this wine with dishes that match its sophistication and depth. It shines alongside butter-poached lobster, scallops with a champagne sauce, or turbot in a delicate cream reduction. Poultry in rich, truffled sauces, or a classic Burgundy specialty like Bresse chicken with morels, will also complement its layered profile. For cheese, opt for aged Comté or a creamy Chaource.

To fully appreciate the aromatic complexity and elegant structure of this wine, serve it at 12-14°C. Decanting for thirty minutes before serving will help reveal its full array of flavours. This is a wine that can be enjoyed now for its youthful vibrancy, but will reward further cellaring, developing even greater nuance with time.