2022, Maison Benjamin Leroux, BÂTARD-MONTRACHET, Grand Cru, Magnum (1500ml)

The 2022 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru comes from the Chassagne side and is now one of the first to be picked. Potent scents of yellow plum, peach and passion fruit burst from the glass. The palate is viscous on the entry and very concentrated. I would argue it needs a little more tension on the finish. 90-92 Neal Martin, Vinous (2023).

Leroux's Bâtard is the top white in his cellar once again, with complex aromas of peach, apricot and quince with linden flowers, spice and a touch of smoke. On the palate, the wine has an impressive depth of flavour, and although it does not lack the richness of the appellation, it is also a wine of great elegance and finesse, with a harmonious and superbly long finish. The grapes are from his 0.16-hectare parcel on the Chassagne side; he is now picking these first to maintain freshness. 95 Charles Curtis MW, Decanter (2023).

The Bâtard is still in barrel, without any sulphur adjustment, so in fact needs refreshing which will happen, especially when it goes into tank. Primrose colour, ripe pears with some passion fruit. A significant wealth of fruit but the final wine is not easy to be sure of at this stage. Clean pure fruit returns, not so obvious acidity. This wine is likely to develop better than it is currently showing. *** 92-96 Jasper Morris, Inside Burgundy (2023).

Drinking Window: 2026 - 2042