Domaine Jean-Michel Guillon & Fils Santenay Les Bras Blanc 2023

White Burgundy; France

Winemaker Of The Year By Hachette. Trained at Iconic Roumier and Jayer. One Of Burgundy’s Top Winemakers

He was taught by the greats how to make wine, trained with greats like Domaine G. Roumier and Henri Jayer. He received the honor of “Winemaker Of The Year” in 2020 by Le Guide Hachette des Vins, widely considered the ultimate buyer’s guide to French wine, often referred to as the “French Wine Bible”.

Santenay neighbors Chassagne Montrachet Jean-Michel Guillon is on a mission to make a white Santenay as good if not better than most Chassagne. He chose the prefect old vine vineyard with perfect exposure and elevation. Looking towards Montrachet for inspiration, he uses 100% new French oak across his entire range. The ripe, concentrated fruit from these old vines can handle it, and Guillon has a deft touch. Which is why he was named ‘Burgundy Grower of the Year’ by Guide Hachette in 2020. This is a delicious, robust chardonnay with loads of concentrated fruit flavors. Firm, limestone minerality underscores everything, with lifting herbal tones keeping everything in balance. I have tasted many a Chassagne Montrachet at double the price that are not as good as this wine.