Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru "Les Caillerets" 2011, Jean Chartron

Another wine tasted at the Domaine Jean Chartron in July 2013, for my palate this is the finest of Puligny's premiers crus lieux dit because it is contiguous to Le Montrachet and on the mid-slope. At approximately one-fifth to one-sixth of the price of a bottle of Le Montrachet there is no doubt there is more pleasure to be gained from a half case of Les Caillerets. Dare I say it, the best bottles of Les Caillerets are better wines than the not so well made grands crus. In distinct contrast to the plump and sexy Clos de la Pucelle 2011, this wine has a very pure fresh fruit nose starting with green melon, nashi pear, still slightly closed. This is a powerful, mineral chardonnay with excellent length, finesse and a crystal clear structure with bright shiny edges. A very fresh, lemon-dominated finish leaves the taster feeling refreshed and thirsty for more! Scores 27-28/30 for a Puligny premier cru. Photo shows Les Caillerets looking downslope towards Puligny.