Francois Carillon Saint Aubin Premier Cru Les Murgers des Dents de Chien 2023

Drink it now or cellar for up to 25 years. Serve chilled. François Carillon comes from a noble line of winemakers who have been cultivating vines in Burgundy since 1500. In 2010 François decided to found his own domaine, dividing his family’s vineyards with his brother to claim 16 hectares of prime Puligny Montrachet plots. The domaine is primarily planted with Chardonnay along with a little Aligoté and Pinot Noir. This sublime Premier Cru Burgundy is planted on chalky and stony soils right above the Puligny Montrachet Grand Crus. The name “Dents de Chien” or “Teeth of the Dog” comes from the jagged limestone rocks which are used as stone walls. Like many artisanal producers in Burgundy, François harvests his grapes by hand and ferments using native yeasts. The young wine is then aged in French oak barrels for at least 12 months and then additional ageing in foudres or amphorae. This complex maturation process ensures a delicate balance of terroir and oak, with elegant notes of ripe apricot, creamy butter, and brioche giving way to baked apple and gentle spice on the palate. There’s a velvety texture and firm medium body harmonised by refreshing acidity and a long finish with plenty of savory character. Regarded as one of St Aubin’s top wines, this is a great bottle to cellar for a few more years or enjoy now with seared scallops or the finest lobster.

Price: £76.52 from 8wines UK