Country: France Region: Cotes de Beaune, Burgundy Varietal: Chardonnay Vintage: 2013 Colour: White Style: Dry Producer: Boisset Description: Like many Burgundy lovers, we’ve long admired the exceptional purity and finesse of the Puligny-Montrachets from Louis Carillon... When we heard that his son François had taken over part of the family estate, we jumped at the chance to visit and taste his wines. François has five hectares from his father, as well as 1.5 hectares acquired from a neighbour, which represent some of the finest parcels in the appellation. They include an impressive array of Premier Crus, the wines from which are modestly priced, given both their quality and rarity. François’ reds are from slightly lesser-known appellations, and offer excellent value compared with the big names of Burgundy. Ageing Potential: 7 - 10 years Vineyards The Puligny-Montrachet 2010 is from François’ three hectare vineyard around the village itself. Although not certified, François works the vines organically, and uses no chemical fertilizers or pesticides throughout the year. Vines are planted to a high density of 10,000 vines per hectare and harvest is always by hand.  The 2010 vintage saw a yield equivalent to 40 hectolitres per hectare on average for the Puligny-Montrachet Villages. Vintage information Yields were down in 2010 due to a mild spring with unsettled weather during flowering as well as a very cold spell in December from which some vines never recovered. The first half of July was hot and dry but then the end of July and August were wet and cool. The north wind came in September and dried the grapes and they were brought into the wine in good health. The resulting wines are fresh, light with high levels of mouthwatering acidity. This is a vintage that can be cellared as well as enjoyed immediately. Vinification The 2010 was fermented in 228 litre barrels for approximately 3 weeks at a temperature of 22 degrees maximum; no skin contact was used, to ensure that the extraction of phenolics was low, resulting in a delicate, finer style of wine. The wine was then aged for just over 12 months in barrel. François limits the amount of new oak used for the Village level to 12%, allowing the fruit to shine through, although he varies the provenance of the barrels. He works closely with Taransaud, Seguin-Moreau, Mercurey and Chassin to ensure the finest grain oak is used. Tasting Notes This is a stunning example of a classic, elegant Puligny-Montrachet which shows great precision. It has lovely aromas of Conference pear and citrus fruit. Light and fine on the palate, it leaves a surprisingly refreshing finish with great white flowers and cooked apples flavours. Food Matches:White Meat / Turkey / Pork / Foie Gras