Arnaud Baillot 'Les Cras' Meursault 1er Cru 2021

Arnaud Baillot is a winemaker who has quickly established a strong reputation in Burgundy. Together with his wife Laure, who comes from the renowned Beaune wine family, Arnaud founded Domaine Arnaud Baillot with a focus on producing limited quantities of high-quality wines from some of Burgundy’s most prestigious appellations. His philosophy emphasizes respecting traditional winemaking techniques while also incorporating modern insights to enhance the natural expression of the terroir.

Meursault is a celebrated wine village in the Côte de Beaune subregion of Burgundy, known for producing some of the world’s finest Chardonnay. The 'Les Cras' vineyard, designated as Premier Cru, is located on the western slopes of Meursault and is known for its limestone-rich soils. This soil composition contributes to the minerality and complex structure of the wines produced here. The 2021 vintage in Burgundy was marked by challenging weather conditions, including frost, which resulted in reduced yields but high-quality grapes with intense flavours and aromatic profiles.

Appearance: The wine presents a brilliant straw-yellow colour with hints of green at the edges, indicating its youthful freshness and vibrancy.

Aroma: The nose is expressive and complex, offering aromas of ripe citrus fruits such as lemon and grapefruit, intertwined with notes of white peach and pear. Subtle floral hints of acacia and honeysuckle are complemented by nuances of almond and fresh brioche from well-integrated oak aging.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and richly textured, with a harmonious balance between vibrant acidity and creamy mouthfeel. Flavours of citrus and stone fruits are pronounced, alongside layers of toasted nuts and a touch of vanilla, showcasing the deft use of oak.

Finish: The finish is long and elegant, with a persistent mineral character that leaves a refreshing and clean aftertaste, highlighted by the wine’s signature minerality and complexity.

Pairing: This Meursault 1er Cru would pair beautifully with a dish like seared scallops in a lemon-butter sauce or a creamy mushroom risotto. The wine’s rich texture and bright acidity complement the richness of the seafood and the umami flavours in the risotto, enhancing the overall dining experience.