2022 Domaine Etienne Sauzet Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru 1.5L

The 2022 Domaine Etienne Sauzet Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru in 1.5L Magnum is a monumental achievement of white Burgundy. Furthermore, Etienne Sauzet represents one of the most revered addresses in Puligny-Montrachet. Winemaker Benoît Riffault guides the estate with obsessive biodynamic precision and artistic restraint. Consequently, this rare magnum allocation delivers breathtaking power, volume, and aristocratic poise.

Additionally, large-format magnums offer the ultimate cellar condition for fine wine aging. The 2022 growing season produced concentrated fruit framed by pristine dry extract. Therefore, this bottle effortlessly balances decadent Grand Cru breadth with crystalline limestone tension.

Terroir & Viticulture

Bâtard-Montrachet sits directly beneath Le Montrachet on the gentle mid-slope of the hill. Specifically, Sauzet’s parcels occupy ancient, deep clay-limestone soils strewn with polished stones. This moisture-retaining clay subsoil shields the vines during warm summer days. As a result, the Chardonnay develops immense structural breadth and deep phenolic density.

Meanwhile, Benoît Riffault manages every vine row through certified biodynamic viticulture. He works the land according to cosmic rhythms to promote active microbiological soil health. Furthermore, the 2022 season enjoyed radiant sunshine and optimal harvest conditions. Thus, the hand-picked fruit arrived in the cuverie with ideal physiological ripeness.

Vinification & Craftsmanship

In the cellar, Benoît Riffault vinifies with low-intervention methods designed for ageworthy longevity. First, whole bunches undergo slow, gentle pressing to extract clear must. Spontaneous fermentation begins in French oak barrels using native yeasts.

Moreover, the domaine maintains a moderate oak regime with roughly 30% new oak. The wine matures on fine lees for 12 months before completing elevage in stainless steel vats. In addition, the magnum format halves the rate of oxygen transfer during bottle maturation. Finally, the wine is bottled by gravity with minimal sulfur additions.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, the wine presents a shimmering straw-gold hue with green reflections. Immediately, the nose opens with aromas of yellow peach, candied lemon zest, and white flowers. In addition, complex notes of toasted brioche, crushed limestone, hazelnut, and ginger unfold with air.

On the palate, the wine delivers immense power, spherical volume, and razor-sharp velocity. A chiseled laser of limestone acidity cuts cleanly through the decadent, buttery texture. Meanwhile, savory notes of gunflint and saline nuances coat the entire palate. Consequently, the finish persists for well over a minute with an incisive, mouthwatering grip.

Technical Specifications

• Producer: Domaine Etienne Sauzet
• Winemaker: Benoît Riffault
• Appellation: Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru AOC, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 1.5L Magnum
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic
• Maturation: ~12 months in French oak barrels (~30% new oak), followed by stainless steel
• Alcohol: ~13.5% ABV

Service & Cellar Potential

Serve this Grand Cru between 12°C–14°C (54°F–57°F) in wide Burgundy stemware. Specifically, we advise decanting this magnum for 60 minutes prior to service. This aeration allows the massive dry extract and subtle floral nuances to expand fully.

Pair this magnum with roasted lobster, seared turbot in beurre blanc, or veal sweetbreads. Furthermore, the 1.5L format guarantees legendary cellaring longevity. As a result, collectors can cellar this masterpiece safely through 2045 and beyond.