Domaine Leflaive, Puligny-montrachet, “les Pucelles,” 1ER Cru, Burgundy 2017

From the record

DOMAINE LEFLAIVE, PULIGNY-MONTRACHET, “LES PUCELLES,” 1ER CRU, BURGUNDY 2017 is documented in the Cartelier archive as served at Protégé in Palo Alto, CA. It appears on the menu of April 15, 2021 under “2021 - FIRST RELEASE”, one of 6 items served that wine. As printed, the kitchen describes it: Leflaive needs little introduction to wine lovers. It is one of the world’s great wine domains, producing some of Burgundy’s most sought-after white wines. Contiguous with Grand Cru, Bâtard-Montrachet, Les Pucelles produces a comparable quality and character. This is a mineral-driven Chardonnay with tons of finesse. The stony and slightly reductive nose offers scents of peach, lemon, hazelnut and brioche. The palate shows freshness and energy that makes it an incredible candidate for graceful aging. IDEAL DRINKING WINDOW: 2025-2035 PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS: This richer Chardonnay sings with seared scallops, sautéed or roasted fish, or even pork tenderloin with apples. For vegetarians, look to seasonal produce like corn, pumpkin, and mushrooms. DECANT: While it’s not necessary, this wine could benefit from a 30-minute decant if consumed prior to 2023. STEMWARE: Large Burgundy glasses like the Zalto Denk’Art Burgundy or Riedel Vinum Montrachet/Chardonnay IDEAL SERVICE TEMPERATURE: 55°F. Every appearance below preserves the menu exactly as published — source, hash, and date — so this dish can be read as it stood on any documented evening.