Colin Barollet Montagny 1er Cru 'Les Bouchots' 2023

Winemaking

Colin Barollet is a small family grower in Montagny committed to expressing the mineral character of his limestone-based vineyard through restrained, classical winemaking. He allows the terroir to speak rather than imposing oak or heavy intervention, a philosophy that has earned him respect among Burgundy enthusiasts seeking authentic village and premier cru expressions.

Tasting Notes

This premier cru Chardonnay opens with elegant citrus and green apple aromas layered with a subtle minerality that immediately signals its limestone heritage. On the palate, you'll find crisp white stone fruit—think peach and pear—rounded out by a whisper of hazelnut that adds gentle complexity without overshadowing the wine's bright acidity. The finish is clean and mineral-driven, with excellent length and a saline quality that keeps calling you back to the glass.

Producer

Barollet operates a small vineyard estate in Montagny, one of Burgundy's underrated appellations and the source of excellent, food-friendly premier cru white wines. The domaine practices traditional Burgundian viticulture, focusing on sustainable farming practices that respect the vineyard's natural balance and terroir expression.

Terroir

Montagny sits in the southern reaches of the Côte Chalonnaise, a region known for limestone-rich soils that impart a distinctive mineral edge to Chardonnay. The 'Les Bouchots' vineyard benefits from this calcareous bedrock and south-facing exposure, which provides adequate warmth while maintaining the crisp, elegant character Montagny is prized for. The continental climate of inland Burgundy ensures good acidity even in ripe vintage years.

Food Pairings

Serve this with oysters or a simple shrimp crudo for a classic pairing that lets the wine's minerality shine. For something warmer, try seared scallops with brown butter and lemon, or a light coq au vin made with white wine and pearl onions—the wine's acidity cuts right through the richness. It's equally at home with a casual lunch of crusty bread, fresh goat cheese, and charcuterie.