Domaine Etienne Sauzet, established in the 1920s and today one of the most important producers of white wine in all Burgundy
The history of this domaine dates to the beginning of the 20th century, when Etienne Sauzet inherited and bought several plots of vines in the village of Puligny-Montrachet. The vines passed through the family to Jeanine Boillot, Sauzet’s granddaughter. Jeanine and her husband, Gérard Boudot, managed the domaine, making many modernizations including improved vinification techniques and biodynamic farming.
Today the domaine has been passed to their daughter Emilie and her husband, Benoît Riffault, who continue to produce white wines that are among the most sought-after in all of Burgundy. Although the winemaking techniques have been modernized, M. Sauzet’s traditions of estate-bottling and of aging the wines on their lees for 10-12 months to “nourish them” are still respected and result in superbly finished, fruity, and full-bodied wines. After four generations, Sauzet is still synonymous with high-quality, elegant, Burgundian Chardonnay.
Some 9.24 hectares are currently owned, including tiny plots of Batard-Montrachet and Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet, along with an impressive array of six premiers crus in Puligny-Montrachet. A tiny (half hectare) plot is also owned in Chassagne-Montrachet, Les Encegnieres, directly underneath vines Sauzet utilises in Batard-Montrachet.
91-94 Points Allen Meadows
A subtle application of wood easily allows the mildly exotic and fresh aromas of ripe white and yellow orchard fruit, tangerine peel and lychee nut to be appreciated. As is usually the case the medium weight plus flavors are slightly bigger and richer than those of the Champ Canet yet the palate impression remains one of refinement and class on the lingering finish that displays focused power. This beautifully balanced effort will also require at least moderate patience.