DOMAINE MICHEL NIELLON CHASSAGNE MONTRACHET 1ER CRU 'LES CHAUMEES' 2022

The premier cru Les Chaumees reveals Chassagne-Montrachet's mineral soul through this golden lemon-yellow treasure from the multi-generational Niellon estate. Following their thoughtful approach to winemaking, initial fermentation in stainless steel transitions to small oak barrels (20-30% new) for completion and malolactic conversion, with minimal batônnage to preserve the wine's natural complexity. Eight to nine months of careful aging develops its distinctive character—fresh fruit aromas mingle with subtle florals and intriguing petrol notes, while the palate delivers pronounced minerality interwoven with yellow and white fruit flavors and a characteristic sappy quality. This expression exemplifies the family's commitment to terroir-driven wines through sustainable farming practices and their intimate knowledge of Chassagne's limestone-rich soils, cultivated with meticulously selected vineyard clones that enhance both balance and complexity.

Burghound (93): Beautifully layered aromas of smoky pear, spice and a lovely array of white orchard fruit nuances are trimmed in hint of just sliced citrus. I very much like the texture and vibrancy of the slightly bigger-bodied yet more refined flavors that display excellent length on the balanced, clean, dry and impressively long finish. This is excellent and a wine that always repays extended keeping and the 2022 version should be no exception.