Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles 2016

Intro: The 2016 “Les Pucelles” from Domaine Leflaive offers a compelling expression of this esteemed terroir in Puligny Montrachet. The vineyard “Les Pucelles” lies at high altitude (230-250 m) on calcareous clay soils near the top slope of Puligny Montrachet, giving wines of great minerality and pedigree. Production in 2016 was impacted by frost and low yields; while the grand crus suffered more, the premiers such as Les Pucelles remained relatively intact but benefited from intensity.

Region: Burgundy || Winery: Domaine Leflaive

Grapes: 100% Chardonnay

Aging: Matured in the estate’s cellars for approximately 16 months (including 4 months in stainless steel) in French oak barrels (28% new oak) before bottling

ABV: 13.5% || Decant: 20–30 minutes || Serving Temp: 12-14°C

Pairing: Lobster or large sea scallops with beurre blanc or truffle butter; turbot or fine white fish in an almond/parsley sauce

Tasting Notes: The 2016 Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles, Leflaive shows a pale golden hue with aromas of citrus peel, pear skin, honeysuckle, and flinty minerality. Medium to full bodied with refined acidity, white peach and pear fruit, subtle oak, and a firm mineral backbone. The finish is long, saline, and finely etched; poised, precise, and built for graceful ageing