Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Saint Jean Paul Pillot 2022

The natural breadth of Clos Saint-Jean and the generosity of the 2022 vintage come together beautifully here, but Thierry Pillot’s hallmark precision keeps the wine firmly on its toes. Ripe lemon, yellow apple and white peach lead the nose, followed by orange blossom, toasted hazelnut and a subtle smoky reduction. The palate has impressive depth and texture, with layers of orchard fruit and citrus oil giving way to a firmer chalky core. There is richness, but never excess: vivid acidity provides tension throughout, while touches of almond, fine spice and wet stone build towards a long, saline finish. A powerful Chassagne in outline, yet one delivered with remarkable control.

Clos Saint-Jean is one of Chassagne-Montrachet’s historic Premier Cru vineyards, occupying a prominent position above the village. Although the climat has a particularly distinguished history for red wine, Chardonnay from the site can combine considerable body with firm mineral structure. Thierry Pillot’s restrained élevage and focus on freshness are ideally suited to that character. The ripe 2022 vintage gives the wine additional volume and immediate appeal, while its underlying acidity and mineral tension suggest plenty of potential for further development.