Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard Vergers, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru, France 2023

Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard is one of the finest and most integral producers in the village of Chassagne-Montrachet. The domaine has its origin in the fine Gagnard-Delagrange holdings of fifty years ago, as the vineyards hail from the marriage of Richard Fontaine to Jacques Gagnard’s oldest daughter, Laurence Gagnard, in 1982. The intuitive and graceful Céline Fontaine has been overseeing the family holdings and winemaking since 2007, and today, she is joined by her partner Fred Robert who worked at Rousseau from 2006 to 2017. Together they manage the the heart and soul of Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard -- the family's Chassagne-Montrachets, which includes a fine clutch of premier crus as well as the grand crus of Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet, Bâtard-Montrachet and Montrachet itself.

"The 2023 Chassagne-Montrachet Vergers ler Cru has a bright nose with yellow plum, white peach and light sea spray scents that opens beautifully in the glass. The palate is very well balanced and quite intense with a bit more body than other cuvées. It's a little honeyed toward the finish but the acidity keeps everything in check. This is a charming Chassagne." Vinous 92