2021 Hubert Lamy Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Clos de la Chatenière

The Lamy family has been working in the Saint-Aubin vineyards in Burgundy since 1640. In 1973, after working with his father for many years, Hubert Lamy founded Domaine Hubert Lamy. At that time, the estate consisted of just 8 hectares, located primarily in regional appellations. Today, the estate extends over 18.5 hectares, 80% of which are Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir, spread across the Saint-Aubin, Puligny-Montrachet, Chassagne-Montrachet, and Santenay appellations. To combat diseases and pests, they use "lutte raisonnée" or integrated pest management: products that respect nature and are used only when necessary. For the past 10 years, no chemical fertilizers have been used in the vineyards, only organic compost.

The Chardonnay grapes for Clos de la Chaténiere come from a southeast-facing 1er cru vineyard between the villages of Gamay and Chassagne-Montrachet. The vineyard's soil consists primarily of calcareous clay, with a high proportion of stones. The vines were planted in 1964, and the vineyard covers 1.25 hectares. Harvesting is entirely manual. The grapes are transported in small bins to prevent damage.

The white Chardonnay grapes are pressed very gently. The final pressing juice, as well as the juice from the young grapes, is vinified separately, ensuring that only the very best is used for the AOC wines. After 12 to 18 hours, the cloudy solids are separated from the must (this results in a fresher and more lively wine), and the wines are fermented in 228-liter barrels. Fermentation is very long, approximately 90 days. The barrels are originally from Vosges, Troncais, or Allier, 20% of which are new. Bottling takes place in September, after clarification and very gentle filtration.

The Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Clos de la Chatenière has a clean and precise bouquet with white peach, orange, and subtle anise aromas. The palate is very well-balanced, with depth and fruit intensity, featuring notes of white peach interspersed with bitter lemon, leading to a harmonious and fairly long, creamy finish. A magnificent wine with excellent aging potential. Parker writes: "...it rewards bottle age."