1990 Meursault les Perrieres
By Domaine des Comtes Lafon
2017 Bâtard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive, Burgundy, France
A fascinating and definitive study of terroir and the artisan's acumen manifests in the 2017 Bâtard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive. As one delves into the alluring narrative of this esteemed Burgundian producer, it is crucial to appreciate that the year 2017 was one of generous yields and high quality across Burgundy after the region rebounded from several challenging vintages. My rendezvous with this wine made it evident why Domaine Leflaive maintains its lofty status among connoisseurs and investors alike.
Purity Meeting Precision
For oenophiles tracking the legacy of Burgundian whites, the 2017 harvest at Domaine Leflaive was as much about balance as it was about finesse. The vintage allowed for optimal fruit maturity while preserving the sharp acidity that is hallmarked of these wines. This particular iteration of their Bâtard-Montrachet bears an eloquent testimony to this natural equilibrium. The nose—generous and welcoming—beckons with notes of citrus zest and white blossom overlaying a core of ripe stone fruits and toasted almond.
Investment-Worthy Pedigree
The palate yields an exquisite tension between creamy texture and mineral drive, a duality that speaks volumes about the calibre promised by both the 2017 vintage and Domaine Leflaive's viticultural prowess. This Bâtard-Montrachet unfurls gracefully across the senses; a glide rather than a stride across the tongue, leaving behind imprints of Meyer lemon curd and marzipan accented by an undercurrent of flinty resolve.
Coincidentally, for investors looking toward longevity, 2017 is already hinting at its capacity for graceful ageing—a merit that magnifies this wine's investable appeal. The marriage between varietal character and a vintage that exuded both vibrancy and structure positions this Bâtard-Montrachet as a promising candidate for diversifying any fine wine portfolio.
A Connoisseur's Summary
Each encounter with the 2017 Bâtard-Montrachet from Domaine Leflaive has solidified my admiration for its intricacies and investment potential. Savouring this nectar is akin to unravelling an intricate tapestry wove with threads of orchard fruit, toasted brioche, elevated by a seamstress skilled in weaving mineral undertones into her work. Seekers of vinous excellence and prudent investments will find assuring solace in the folds of this splendid year from a formidable producer.
Market price (GBP)
£13,100.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
1091.67
Scores and tasting notes
Lafon rarely filters his wines. Importer: A Peter Vezan Selection, various importers, including Classic Wine Imports, Boston, MA. No further tasting note.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 25 October 1993