FEATURES
The 1997 vintage for white 布根地 (Burgundy) was the third fine vintage in a row for whites, characterized by fat, fleshy wines with relatively low acidity. After a warm and dry spring, followed by a cool and wet June/July, August brought sustained hot and humid weather. A beautiful, warm, and sunny September ensured excellent sugar levels and acceptable acidity in the grapes, with almost no rot. While many 1997 white Burgundies were expected to be drunk up by now, the 'En Virondot' vineyard is noted for having exceptional aging potential among Marc Morey's Premier Cru bottlings.
Marc Morey's Chassagne-Montrachet En Virondot 1er Cru 1997 typically displays a light golden colour. The nose is fairly intense, with aromas of flowers, warm croissant or brioche, and candied lemon, evolving with age towards nuances of roasted hazelnuts and spice. The palate is straightforward, combining freshness and character, sap and finesse, with a very long persistence leaving floral notes of gingerbread. General tasting notes for this wine often include oak, butter, vanilla, citrus, lemon, lime, minerals, honey, stone, peach, pear, apricot, and nutty notes. It is described as round and fruity, with Key lime pie, vanilla, pastry, and floral flavours, balanced and approachable with a juicy finish. 【Marc Morey holds a near-monopoly on the 2.1-hectare Premier Cru 'En Virondot' vineyard, which is celebrated for its specific minerality and exceptional aging potential.】
Food pairing suggestions: This elegant white 布根地 is a superb match for shellfish, rich fish like salmon or tuna, various cheeses (especially mild and soft varieties), and light meats. It also pairs beautifully with foie gras frais, Bresse chicken in cream sauce (Poularde de Bresse à la crème), and grilled salmon.
Event suggestions: This wine is suitable for a sophisticated dinner, a special celebration, or as an impressive accompaniment to a gourmet meal. While many 1997 whites are past their prime, this particular Premier Cru from 'En Virondot' is known for its longevity and could still offer a delightful experience.
Serving advice: As a mature white wine, it is advisable to stand the bottle upright for a day or two before serving to allow any potential sediment to settle. Serve chilled but not overly cold, ideally around 12°C (54°F), to allow its complex aromatic profile to fully express itself. Decanting is generally not recommended for older white wines unless there are specific reductive notes, as it can dissipate delicate aromas.