2004 Chevalier Montrachet
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Tasting notes
Clove, wet stone and smoke on the nose, with primary fruit in the background. Ripe, broad and rich, conveying an impression of greater density but lower acidity than the Clos Saint-Jean. But plenty lively on the broad, very long finish, which throws off notes of lemon zest and minerals. In early June, I found this much more vibrant and precise than the 2005, even though Niellon pointed out that the two vintages possesses similar levels of acidity.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A superlatively sophisticated, unbelievably complex and high-toned nose of white flower, spiced pear, limestone, lemon zest and lavender aromas continues onto the almost painfully intense, detailed and pure medium full flavors that culminate in an understated but cuts-like-a-knife finish that goes on and on. This doesn't have the power of the Bâtard but for sheer class and grace, this is hard to beat. Don't miss it.
Reticent nose hints at minerals and spices. Fat, ripe, sweet and impressively broad but light on its feet. Brisk but rich stone and spice flavors. This has more fat for its acids than Niellon's premier crus, but there's no hint of heaviness. In fact, this has an exhilarating sugar/acid balance and terrific spicy persistence.
About the producer
From the heart of Chassagne-Montrachet, Domaine Michel Niellon embodies generations of craftsmanship and Burgundian finesse, producing elegant, terroir-driven wines from just 8 hectares.