The 2022 Domaine Jaeger-Defaix Rully 1er Cru Rabourcé Blanc comes from one of the most highly regarded Premier Cru vineyards in Rully, a steep hillside parcel often referred to as the “Montrachet of Rully” for the richness and power it consistently delivers. The vineyard sits on white limestone-rich clay soils that reflect sunlight onto the vines, encouraging optimal ripening. Managed organically by Hélène and Didier Defaix, the old Chardonnay vines produce fruit of remarkable concentration, with the wine fermented using indigenous yeasts and matured for 18 months in oak barrels to preserve both terroir expression and complexity.
The nose offers white peach, lemon curd, citrus confit and ripe orchard fruits layered with subtle oak spice, crushed anise and hints of toasted nuts. On the palate, it is generous and mouth-filling, showing impressive depth and texture balanced by vibrant acidity and underlying tension. Rich stone fruit and creamy citrus notes are supported by a long, dry and persistent finish with remarkable freshness for such a concentrated wine. Allen Meadows (Burghound) awarded the wine 90–93 points, describing it as a “Sweet Spot” selection, while Jasper Morris MW praised its balance, sensual texture and ageing potential.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb white Burgundy that punches well above its appellation, offering Premier Cru quality at a fraction of Côte de Beaune prices. Rich yet beautifully balanced, it is an excellent match for lobster, roast chicken, turbot, scallops, creamy poultry dishes and aged Comté. Drinking wonderfully now with a short decant, but the concentration and structure suggest it will develop gracefully through 2031–2034.
