2020 Puligny Montrachet Les Pucelles
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Tasting notes
The Pucelles was a real star of the line-up at Alvina Pernot in 2020. The tension here between focus and generosity just right. The nose is rich yet pinpoint – Meyer lemon and white peach flecked with lemon and crushed chalk. It’s richer and rounder than some of the other wines, yet the moreishly tart acidity keeps it in check, providing a vibrant backbone.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jasper Morris MW, Inside Burgundy
Neal Martin, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2020 Puligny-Montrachet Les Pucelles 1er Cru has a lovely bouquet with Granny Smiths, petrichor and light flinty scents. It's pretty reserved at first but classy and correct. It blossoms in the glass after five minutes. The palate is nicely balanced with a crisp, slightly creamy entry. Fine weight and concentration match a fine line of acidity. It's spicy towards a finish that feels long in the mouth. Maybe it needs a bit more terroir expression to keep up with the leaders, but otherwise, it deserves hearty applause. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.
The 2020 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Pucelles opens in the glass with aromas of citrus oil, crisp stone fruit and white flowers. Medium to full-bodied, ample and saline, it's a touch more textural and enveloping than the Caillerets, though it remains one of the finer-boned, leaner cuvées in the range.
About the producer
Alvina Pernot is one of the most exciting producers of white Burgundy today. Based in Puligny-Montrachet with some incredible vineyards, this is a name to watch – creating taut and mineral styles of white Burgundy.