When I visited the domaine last November, I was awed by Pernot’s line-up of 2017 whites. My assessment after the tasting was that Pernot made exceptional white wines in 2017, zesty and penetrating — a real success! You could safely buy any of their wines from their Bourgogne Blanc up to their Bâtard-Montrachet and be thrilled. So, when I saw their Bourgogne Blanc for sale, I snatched-up a case. Not surprisingly, it has closed up since last November, but its breeding still shines. Lacy and elegant, it reflects Pernot’s finesse-filled style. Those enamored with voluptuous New World Chardonnay will be disappointed, but those whose tastes run to sleek and chiseled wines will love it. I’d give even this “lowly” Bourgogne Blanc a year in the cellar for it to blossom.
Domaine Paul Pernot et Fils, Bourgogne Blanc (Burgundy, France) 2017
By Michael Apstein