The roots of the Leflaive family go back to 1717 when Claude Leflaive took up residence in Puligny-Montrachet, intent upon cultivating several acres of vineyards. The domaine, in its present form, was created by Joseph Leflaive between the years of 1910 and 1930, as a result of his successive purchases of vineyards and houses.
Today, the domaine extends over 24 hectares (59.3 acres) in Puligny-Montrachet, of which 4.8 hectares (11.9 acres) are grands crus and 10.8 hectares (26.7 acres) are premiers crus, all growing one varietal: Chardonnay. Since 2004 the domaine has expanded into the Mâconnais and cultivates some 20 hectares 49.4 acres) in Mâcon-Verzé and Solutré-Pouilly.
93-95 Points Allen Meadows
from 3 different parcels, two on the Chassagne side and the third in the Puligny sector that is near the border dividing the two communes). A beautifully layered nose features notes of citrus peel, lavender, petrol, pear, white peach and soft wood nuances. There is seriously good size, weight and vibrancy to the broad-shouldered and admirably concentrated flavors that possess evident power on the serious, palate staining and strikingly long finish. If this built-to-age Bâtard can add more depth it should merit the upper end of my predicted range though note well that it’s definitely going to require patience.
94-96 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The 2017 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru unfurls in the glass with a reticent bouquet of lemon rind, citrus, hazelnut cream, white flowers and mandarin oil. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, both denser and blockier than the Bienvenues-Bâtard, with exceptional concentration, tangy acids and a long finish. Today, the wine is only partially formed, but it’s immensely promising. Pierre Vincent told me that it attained 12.8% natural alcohol, but despite that rather modest degree for a grand cru white Burgundy, it displays plenty of power and substance.