A tale of two Pulignys

Both were bought at the same time, cellared in the same conditions, they come from the same vintage, the same village, even from the same grower and the same grape variety, and yet they are two totally different wines.  Such are the subtleties of Burgundy that two such similar wines can taste so different. While les Perrieres is relatively mute, les Folatieres is expressive, forthright and leaps from the glass. Sadly, this was the last in the case, so here's to hoping that the three remaining les Perrieres find their voice...

Like all the premier crus, the two vineyards are on the steeper section beyond Puligny village and les Folatieres is the higher of the two.

Puligny-Montrachet, 1er Cru Les Folatieres, Gerard Chavy, 2002

Appearance: golden hay

Nose: Dances out of the glass before even trying to sniff! A heady mix of honey, hazelnuts, apples and a surge of herbs (basil & thyme?)

Palette: deceptively subtle given the nose. A perfect balance of depth and delicacy. Honeyed fruit and almonds, but with a soft mineral undertone and Braeburn acidity. Finally, a finish that refuses to, well, finish!

Conclusion: a truly impressive and intoxicating wine. 4* 9/10