Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru “Sous Fretille” 2021 – Olivier Leflaive

The 2021 Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru “Sous Frétille” from Olivier Leflaive is a testament to the sublime interplay between Burgundy’s storied terroir and the meticulous craftsmanship of one of its most revered winemakers. This Chardonnay, sourced from the esteemed “Sous Frétille” vineyard, encapsulates the elegance, complexity, and vibrancy that Olivier Leflaive is celebrated for, offering a window into the unique character of this Premier Cru vineyard.

Pernand-Vergelesses, nestled in the heart of Burgundy, is renowned for its distinctive terroir, characterized by limestone-rich soils and a microclimate that fosters the cultivation of Chardonnay grapes with profound depth and aromatic intensity. The “Sous Frétille” vineyard, with its optimal elevation and exposure, is particularly celebrated for producing wines of remarkable finesse and minerality. The 2021 vintage, marked by its climatic resilience, provided an ideal backdrop for the development of grapes that balanced concentrated flavors with a vibrant acidity, a hallmark of Leflaive’s wines.

Upon experiencing this wine, one is immediately struck by its luminous golden hue, a prelude to the rich olfactory journey that awaits. The bouquet is an intricate mosaic of aromas, where ripe orchard fruits, such as peach and apple, blend seamlessly with hints of citrus zest and blossom. These primary aromas are beautifully underpinned by a refined minerality and subtle nuances of toasted almonds and spice, a testament to the vineyard’s limestone influence and the judicious use of oak aging.

On the palate, the Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru “Sous Frétille” 2021 unfolds with a graceful harmony of flavors. The lush fruit notes are beautifully balanced by a lively acidity that infuses the wine with freshness and dynamism, while the well-integrated oak aging contributes depth and a creamy texture without overwhelming the wine’s intrinsic qualities. The minerality, ever-present, adds a backbone to the wine, contributing to a structured elegance and a long, nuanced finish that continues to evolve with each sip.

This wine is not merely an expression of Chardonnay; it is a celebration of the unique terroir of “Sous Frétille,” the adaptive genius of Olivier Leflaive in the face of the vintage’s challenges, and the enduring allure of Burgundy’s white wines. Each bottle serves as a testament to the domaine’s commitment to producing wines that are authentic, expressive, and deeply connected to their origins, embodying the harmonious balance of the 2021 vintage.

As it matures, the 2021 Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru “Sous Frétille” promises to reveal new facets of its character, showcasing the potential for evolution and the enduring appeal of Burgundy’s terroirs. It invites connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike to explore the depth and diversity of the region’s Chardonnays, offering a drinking experience that is both enriching and immensely pleasurable.

In crafting this wine, Olivier Leflaive has not only captured the essence of Pernand-Vergelesses but has also provided a window into the heart of Burgundy, a region that continues to captivate and inspire wine lovers around the world with its beauty, complexity, and unparalleled expressions of place. The Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru “Sous Frétille” 2021 stands as a celebration of the land, the vine, and the human endeavor that unites them, offering a harmonious blend of nature’s bounty and artisanal craftsmanship that continues to unfold its story with each passing year.