2020 Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune Blanc “Jardin du Calvaire”, Etienne Sauzet

Etienne Sauzet is one of Puligny-Montrachet`s top addresses, which was established by its namesake in the early 20th century. In more recent years, subtle changes have taken place here since Etienne Sauzet`s great grand-daughter, Emilie Boudot, and her husband Benoît Riffault have become increasingly responsible for day-to-day activities. Benoît grew up on his family`s wine domaine in Sancerre, but his boots today are 100% caked with the soils of Puligny-Montrachet. The family`s vineyard holdings cover 15 hectares in Puligny-Montrachet, Chassagne-Montrachet and Cormot-le-Grand in the Hautes Côtes de Beaune. The wines have been biodynamically cultivated since 2009, which has resulted in lessening yields, with aromas which are purer and more precise. The estate has ECOCERT organic certification, and many of the vineyards are 70 years old. Tasting at this property is a masterclass and geography lesson in Puligny-Montrachet. They own plots in 9 of the village`s Premiers Crus, and their sumptous village Puligny cuvée is composed from the grapes of no fewer than 12 plots from around the village, each bringing its own role to the final blend. In addition, they make outstanding Grand Cru wines from Chevalier-Montrachet, Bâtard-Montrachet, Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet, and Le Montrachet itself. All their wines have a beautiful proportion, splendid concentration and elegance that raises them to the highest level in the appelation.