Domaine Faiveley Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru La Garenne 2022

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1825 by Pierre Faiveley in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley has remained a family-owned estate for seven generations. With over 125 hectares of vineyards, it is one of the largest vineyard owners in Burgundy. The domaine’s holdings include prestigious Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites across the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. Under the leadership of Erwan Faiveley since 2005, the estate has embraced sustainable viticulture and modernized winemaking techniques, enhancing the quality and reputation of its wines.

Producer and Winemaker

Erwan Faiveley, representing the seventh generation of the Faiveley family, has been instrumental in elevating the estate’s stature. 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 La Garenne vineyard is a Premier Cru site located in the Puligny-Montrachet appellation of the Côte de Beaune, Burgundy. Situated on the upper slopes of the hillside, it benefits from excellent drainage and a favorable southeast exposure. The soil composition is predominantly limestone, contributing to the wine’s minerality and finesse. The microclimate, characterized by cool nights and warm days, allows for optimal ripening of Chardonnay grapes, resulting in wines with balanced acidity and aromatic complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo gentle pressing. Fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, with 40-50% new oak, over a period of several weeks. The wine is aged on its lees for 17-18 months, with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring) to enhance texture and complexity. This meticulous approach aims to preserve the wine’s purity and express the unique terroir of La Garenne.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru La Garenne exhibits a brilliant pale yellow hue. The nose reveals complex aromas of citrus and exotic fruits combined with delicate toasty notes. On the palate, it is rich and well-balanced, with a smooth mouthfeel and a taut, mineral structure. The wine is harmonious, with exceptional aromatic persistency and a long, multilayered finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Premier Cru Chardonnay pairs excellently with dishes such as grilled lobster, seared scallops, or roasted chicken with creamy sauces. Its richness complements buttery dishes, while its acidity balances richer flavors. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with mushroom risotto or a cheese platter featuring mild and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 12°C to 14°C (54°F to 57°F) in a tulip-shaped white wine glass to concentrate its aromas. No decanting is necessary. Allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes in the glass will enhance its expressive bouquet.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2022 vintage has excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years, developing greater complexity and depth over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%