The 2023 Marc-Antonin Blain Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru Magnum (1500ml) is an extraordinarily rare and prestigious white Burgundy from one of the smallest and most coveted Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte de Beaune. Situated in Chassagne-Montrachet, Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet is renowned for producing Chardonnay of immense elegance, purity and complexity, often combining the richness of Bâtard-Montrachet with the finesse and precision associated with Montrachet itself. The 2023 vintage has delivered exceptional fruit purity and balance, while the magnum format ensures outstanding ageing potential and graceful long-term development.
The nose is intensely expressive and layered, revealing aromas of lemon zest, white peach and ripe pear alongside acacia blossom, citrus oil and delicate floral notes. As the wine opens, nuances of toasted hazelnut, almond cream and fresh brioche emerge, complemented by pronounced chalky minerality and hints of wet stone. The aromatic profile is both powerful and refined, displaying remarkable depth while maintaining exceptional freshness and precision.
On the palate, it is full-bodied and beautifully structured with extraordinary concentration and balance. Layers of citrus, white stone fruits and orchard fruits unfold across the palate, supported by vibrant acidity and a profound mineral backbone. The texture is rich and seamless, yet there is remarkable tension and energy throughout. Notes of crushed limestone, oyster shell and subtle oak integration add complexity without overshadowing the fruit or terroir. The finish is exceptionally long, focused and persistent, leaving lingering impressions of citrus zest, saline minerality and refined Grand Cru power. This is a Chardonnay of immense pedigree, capable of evolving beautifully for decades.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional opportunity for collectors and lovers of the world’s greatest Chardonnay. Compared to broader and more powerful Grand Cru styles, Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet often delivers greater elegance, purity and precision while still offering extraordinary concentration and complexity. The magnum format further enhances its collectability and cellaring potential, allowing the wine to mature slowly and develop remarkable nuance over time. While already captivating in its youth, this is a wine built for the long term. Drink from now with careful decanting or cellar confidently through to 2055 and beyond. Perfect with lobster, scallops, turbot, truffle-infused poultry dishes, premium shellfish or simply enjoyed as a contemplative Grand Cru Burgundy experience.
