The 2023 Marc-Antonin Blain Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is an extraordinary white Burgundy from one of the most prestigious Chardonnay vineyards in the world. Marc-Antonin Blain’s parcel lies on the Chassagne-Montrachet side of Bâtard-Montrachet, directly below the legendary Montrachet Grand Cru. Produced from 100% Chardonnay, the 2023 is matured for around 12 months in French oak, with approximately 50% new barrels. The wine opens with concentrated aromas of ripe white peach, pear and citrus, layered with white flowers, toasted hazelnut, subtle spice and profound limestone minerality.
On the palate, it is powerful and deeply concentrated yet remarkably precise, with generous stone fruit and citrus supported by vibrant acidity and a dense mineral backbone. Fine oak brings texture and subtle richness without overwhelming the purity of the Chardonnay, while the wine builds progressively across the palate towards a long, saline and persistent finish. It captures the classic character of Bâtard-Montrachet: immense depth and richness combined with the tension and refinement expected from one of Burgundy’s greatest Grand Cru terroirs. The domaine relies on hand harvesting, indigenous-yeast fermentation and restrained intervention to preserve the expression of each vineyard.
Ben's Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional choice for serious white Burgundy collectors. Bâtard-Montrachet sits among the absolute pinnacle of Chardonnay, and Marc-Antonin Blain’s 2023 combines Grand Cru concentration with impressive mineral precision and long-term ageing potential. Production is extremely limited, and the 2023 Bâtard-Montrachet was offered on allocation in international en-primeur releases. While already impressive in its youth, this is a bottle that deserves patience. Pair with lobster, turbot, scallops, roast Bresse chicken, morels, truffle dishes or aged Comté.
