1981 Domaine Leflaive Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru
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Tasting notes
Bright orange color. Aromas of orange, dried apricot, marzipan and honey reminded me a bit of a nutty pastry dessert. Supple and moderately rich on entry, then firm and a bit dry in the middle palate, with flavors of orange zest, honey and marzipan framed by firm acidity. There's still an element of piquancy here that's refreshing. Finishes dry but not parching or short; in fact, this still builds subtly on the finish. But turned nutty in the glass, losing its verve more quickly than the '86 and '84 bottlings. Drink up.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
About the producer
Domaine Leflaive is arguably Burgundy’s most famous white wine producer, setting the benchmark for top-quality Chardonnay in the Côte de Beaune and the world. The property is the largest land-owner in Puligny-Montrachet, with extensive holdings in the village and five hectares of Grand Cru vineyards