Wine Advisor
Jean Noel Gagnard, Batard Montrachet Grand Cru 2010
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Description
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
The 2010 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru from Jean-Noel Gagnard, out of magnum, is quite deep in color, although not premoxed. It has an open bouquet of white flowers, yellow plum and orange pith, nicely defined if just needing a little more mineralité. The palate is fresh and vibrant with crisp acidity, lovely walnut and hazelnut notes rendering it quite Meursault-like, and plenty of weight and concentration toward the finish. I do not estimate this to be a long-term Bâtard, so don’t hesitate to pull the cork soon. Tasted at Sarah Marsh’s 2010 white burgundy tasting in London.
About the Producer
Caroline Lestimé took over from her father, Jean-Noël, in 1989, though Domaine Jean-Noël Gagnard still retains his name. The estate’s modern reputation has very much been built by Caroline, who has made it her responsibility to develop the many expressions of Chassagne Montrachet terroirs across her range. There are 12 different Premiers Crus to choose from; some now carry their own identity, having previously been offered under the larger Morgeot appellation. She has bought more land in Chassagne when available and affordable, and there’s a very well-situated white wine vineyard in the Hautes-Côtes, sold under the L’Estimée brand. Some very attractive reds from Chassagne round off the range. The vineyards are all organic, now certified; Caroline plans to put that status on her labels from the 2019 vintage. In the winery A little perspective is always an asset with Caroline’s wines: it’s not her style to manipulate or force, and any perception of dumbness is always mitigated once in bottle. Caroline is always very attuned to her wines’ progress during élevage.
