Action packed day… a little work at Domaine pumping down wine and then off to visit some marquis sites in the Cote de Beanue. It was the prettiest day yet, so photo opps at the vineyards such as Montrachet and Genevrieres were perfect. While taking a few photos of the Montrachet vineyards, we exchanged pleasantries with a woman harvesting grapes with her crew in “Caillerets,” a Monopole vineyard of Domaiine Chartron. Turns out she is the sister of Chartron and she insisted that we meet her brother to taste some their wines…OK twist my tongue. That is one thing that continues to impress me about the people of Burgundy….their hospitality and kindness even when they are busy.

We tasted a few their Premier Crus and they exhibited an amazing clean, pure quality with that classic beam of minerality you find only there. Chartron was still harvesting while others we already finished. We asked why…He asked the same question. Why the hurry? Jean said wanted to wait a little longer as he believed a few more days would only add to quality of the final wines. We’ll see.

We got a bottle to go as we headed to Meursault for a little lunch in the vineyards. Of course it didn’t last long, so we needed more. But where? I knew the answer… Meursault!

While in Meursault we stopped by Alain Patriarche. (Not to be confused with the Patriarche sign in Beaune – differnet folks) After talking for a minute or two, we bought a bottle of their phenomenal Meaursault, “Vielles Vignes” 2001 and headed to the local deli for some croissants, cheese and meats. We drove to a little side road above the village and enjoyed a picturesque lunch…trully a perfect setting.

It is amazing to me the difference and unique tastes in wines for two villages so close together (Meursault & Puligny Montrachet). After lunch we drove through Volnay and eventually back to Pommard. A good day.

Harvest is over…tonite is the party. Don’t count on any reports.

John in Pommard.