Note: from 3 different plots measuring .48 ha in Chassagne with vines planted in '52, '77 and '86

Producer note: Jean-Marc Blain, who has directed this 8 ha domaine since 1980, told me that 2009 "produced reds that remind me of the 1989s. One of the more interesting aspects of the '89s is that they never really did close down and I don't think that the '09s will either. Yields in '09 were higher than they were in '89 and in this regard, the vintage is more like '99, which is to say around 50 hl/ha rather than my normal 40 hl/ha." These two '09s were bottled in February, 2011 without fining or filtration. Note that the Morgeot, Pitures and Champans were not available for evaluation at the time of my visit.

Tasting note: As is typically the case, this is not quite as ripe as the Criots and is moderately more elegant too with a white peach, floral and lemon suffused nose. There is excellent richness but also fine detail to the big, powerful and broad-shouldered flavors that possess terrific intensity on the explosive and hugely long finish. Despite the impressive size and weight however, this essentially remains a Bâtard of refinement.

Tasted: Feb 01, 2011 Score: 95 Drink: 2016+
- Comments: Don't miss!
Issue 43

2009 Blain-Gagnard Bâtard-Montrachet:
The fruit character is more candied in this white, along with butterscotch and pastry notes. Promises more up front than it delivers on the finish, at least for now. Best from 2013 through 2020. 60 cases imported.
by Bruce Sanderson, August 31, 2012

Creamy lemon nose. Concentrated and good depth of fruit inside the firm acid structure.
Rated 17/20 - Drink 2015 to 2025
by Julia Harding MW, January 27, 2011