2011 Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru Henri Boillot

An ultra-pure nose of dried white flowers, green apple, pear and wet stone introduces intensely mineral-driven flavors that are superbly well-delineated and exceptionally fine before culminating in an explosively long and bone dry yet not especially austere finish. This is a wine of crystalline purity that should live for years and, I expressly note, will require plenty of cellar time to realize its immense potential. In a word, brilliant. 2023+ .

Along with the Meursault Genevrieres, the 2011 Chevalier-Montrachet is the most impressive wine in Boillot's cellar today. Rich, honeyed and expansive, the Chevalier covers every corner of the palate with layers of deeply expressive fruit. Juicy apricots, peaches and sweet spices are some of the many notes that open up in the glass. The Chevalier continues to blossom as the fruit fleshes out and the wine gains volume. Frankly, it is hard to move on after tasting this magnificent Burgundy. Anticipated maturity: 2014+.

Knockout nose combines strong metallic minerality, crushed rock, citrus peel and a high note of lavender. Penetrating, minerally and dry, with terrific definition in the middle palate. The endless rising finish combines a compellingly silky texture, subtle sweetness and outstanding energy. Boillot maintains that Chevalier-Montrachet is the best white cru in Burgundy owing to its uncanny crystalline character-- "like quartz."