2018 Puligny Montrachet Les Folatieres

Paul Pernot is a benchmark Puligny producer that “could be the outstanding domaine of that appellation” according to Jasper Morris. The family-run Domaine produces quintessential Pulignys marked by exquisite delicacy and poise but with the structure to age gracefully. Most of the wines are sold to négociants in Beaune, with only the absolute crème de la crème retained and bottled under the Domaine’s own name. Pernot's wines are representative of Puligny-Montrachet at its best and none more so than 'Les Folatières' from the 2018 vintage, which is immediately available in the UK now. Folatières is one of Puligny’s finest Premier Cru sites and Paul Pernot’s most important holding at just over three hectares. The vines are situated on the lower (and most revered) part of the site, on the same contour as the Montrachet Grand Cru and Les Caillerets Premier Cru. With 3ha Paul Pernot are the largest owner in Folatières, meaning they have access to a larger range of expressions and the luxury of selecting only the very best grapes. The winemaking sees a restrained use of new oak as well as a relatively short élevage of 11 months. There is also minimal bâtonnage - just two or three times to help start malolactic fermentation. This is all done to preserve maximum typicity of the terroir. Intense flowers and spice on the nose. This is powerful, inviting and complex. Following through to the palate, the green fruits, citrus and butterscotch all shine through, working together in perfect harmony. Intense minerality too, with the very pure finish lingering for an age.