Domaine Faiveley Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru 2022

Winery Background and History

Established in 1825 in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley is one of Burgundy’s most esteemed family-owned estates. Spanning over 120 hectares across the Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, and Côte Chalonnaise, the domaine has cultivated a reputation for producing wines that reflect the purity and complexity of their terroirs. Under the stewardship of Erwan Faiveley since 2005, the estate has embraced sustainable viticulture and modernized its winemaking techniques while honoring traditional practices. Faiveley’s commitment to excellence is evident in its portfolio, which includes several Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards. 

Producer and Winemaker

Erwan Faiveley, representing the seventh generation of the Faiveley family, has been instrumental in elevating the domaine’s stature in the global wine community. Collaborating with Technical Director Jérôme Flous, the team emphasizes precision in both vineyard management and winemaking. Their approach focuses on minimal intervention, allowing each wine to express its unique origin. The duo’s dedication to quality and innovation ensures that Domaine Faiveley’s wines consistently showcase elegance, depth, and a true sense of place.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru vineyard, located in the commune of Puligny-Montrachet within the Côte de Beaune sub-region, is renowned for producing some of Burgundy’s most exquisite white wines. Domaine Faiveley’s 0.51-hectare parcel, acquired in 2008, features vines planted in 1980. The vineyard boasts fine brown soils over hard limestone and benefits from an eastern exposure, which ensures optimal sunlight for grape ripening. The temperate continental climate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, contributes to the development of grapes with balanced acidity and complex flavors. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Harvested by hand, the Chardonnay grapes undergo a meticulous selection process before being gently pressed. Fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, with 50-60% being new oak, over a period of four weeks. The wine is aged on its lees for 18 months, with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring) to enhance texture and complexity. This traditional approach, combined with modern precision, results in a wine that embodies both richness and finesse. 

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru presents a pale, clear yellow hue. The nose is elegant yet powerful, revealing aromas of white and yellow fruits, white flowers such as acacia and orange blossom, and freshly baked brioche. On the palate, the wine is delicate yet distinctive, characterized by flavors of stewed fruits and candied lemon. The finish is fresh and lively, offering exceptional length and a harmonious balance of richness and acidity. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Grand Cru Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its richness complements seafood delicacies like lobster thermidor, scallops in beurre blanc, and grilled turbot. The wine’s acidity balances creamy poultry dishes such as chicken in morel mushroom sauce or veal blanquette. For cheese pairings, consider aged Comté, Brie de Meaux, or a delicate triple-cream cheese to enhance the wine’s complexity.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its nuances, serve the 2022 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru at 12°C to 14°C (54°F to 57°F). Use a Burgundy-style white wine glass to concentrate its aromatic profile. While decanting is not essential, allowing the wine to breathe for 15-30 minutes before serving can enhance its expressive qualities.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store the wine in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2022 vintage possesses excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years. With time, the wine will develop greater complexity, revealing tertiary notes of honey, toasted nuts, and dried fruits, further enhancing its depth and character.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%

Scores

• Wine Advocate: 95

• James Suckling: 94–97

• Jasper Morris (Inside Burgundy): 94–97

• Vinous (Neal Martin): 93–95

• Wine Spectator: 94