Domaine Leflaive - Puligny-Montrachet 2022

The roots of the Leflaive family go back to 1717 when Claude Leflaive took up residence in Puligny-Montrachet, intent upon cultivating several acres of vineyards. The domaine, in its present form, was created by Joseph Leflaive between the years of 1910 and 1930, as a result of his successive purchases of vineyards and houses.

Today, the domaine extends over 24 hectares (59.3 acres) in Puligny-Montrachet, of which 4.8 hectares (11.9 acres) are grands crus and 10.8 hectares (26.7 acres) are premiers crus, all growing one varietal: Chardonnay. Since 2004 the domaine has expanded into the Mâconnais and cultivates some 20 hectares 49.4 acres) in Mâcon-Verzé and Solutré-Pouilly.

Domaine Leflaive is one of the pioneers of biodynamic viticulture in Burgundy. After increasing trials at the beginning of the 1990s, conversion has been total since 1996. Biodynamics is a method of cultivation based upon a sensitive understanding of natural phenomenon, taking into account terrestrial and lunar rhythms. It strictly excludes the use of all chemical products. It seeks first to promote the life of the soil and the development of a number of important species. The preparations used in biodynamics allow the vine to reinforce its own immunity by respecting the natural balance of fauna and flora. It provides the organic matter — vegetable, animal and mineral — transformed (horn of manure, horn of silica and other preparations based on wild herbs such as yarrow, chamomile and nettles).

Coming from 7 different plots all throughout the AOC, the Village wines from Domaine Leflaive are a great representation of the wines of Puligny. The minerality, combined with the unique texture, make this wine stand out from the crowd, leading the way to the greatness of the Premiers and Grands Cru from the family.

Long, gentle pneumatic pressing, decanting over 24 hours, then racking and running into cask of the must. Alcoholic fermentation in oak casks, 18% new (maximum 1/2 Vosges, minimum 1/2 Allier). After 12 months in cask, the wine is aged 6 months in tank where it is prepared for bottling. Fining and very light filtering if necessary.

"This village-level wine is a reliable benchmark for the commune. It reflects the sunny character of the vintage with its ripe stone fruit and citrus notes, yet offers depth and complexity as well, with saline hints, flint and fresh white flowers. The texture is silky and approachable. It’s drinking now, but with enough substance to hold for five to 10 years." - 94 Points, Decanter

Producer: Domaine Leflaive

Country: France

Region: Burgundy

Varietal: Chardonnay

Appellation: Puligny-Montrachet

Vintage: 2022

Size: 750ml