XAVIER MONNOT LES GRANDES COUTURES BLANC 750ML

Overview

Producer: Domaine Xavier Monnot

Region: Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France

Appellation: Bourgogne Blanc (Chardonnay)

Style: Dry, medium-bodied white Burgundy

Alcohol: ~12.5–13% ABV

“Les Grandes Coutures” is a high-quality Bourgogne Blanc from Xavier Monnot, sourced from parcels located right next to Meursault. Even though it is classified as regional Bourgogne, it often drinks closer to a village-level white Burgundy because of its vineyard location and quality farming.

Vineyard and Terroir

1. Grapes come from three plots bordering Meursault
2. Vines range roughly 15–50+ years old
3. Soils are primarily clay and limestone (argile)
4. Location gives the wine extra weight, depth, and structure compared to standard Bourgogne Blanc

This proximity to Meursault is key: it brings a more luxurious, textured profile than typical entry-level Burgundy Chardonnay.

Winemaking

1. Fermented and aged in French oak barrels (barrique)
2. Around 15–20% new oak used depending on vintage
3. 12–14 months aging with lees contact
4. Often includes full malolactic fermentation

This approach adds:

1. Light creaminess
2. Subtle toast and vanilla
3. Rounder mouthfeel without heavy oak dominance

Aroma (Nose)

1. Ripe citrus (lemon, grapefruit)
2. White peach and melon
3. Light floral notes
4. Hazelnut, toast, and subtle vanilla from oak

The nose typically shows a balance of fresh fruit + gentle barrel complexity.

Palate (Taste)

1. Medium-bodied with a silky, rounded texture
2. Flavors of:
3. Lemon curd and citrus zest
4. Ripe orchard fruit (pear, apple)
5. Light cream and almond
6. Subtle oak influence (vanilla, toasted brioche)
7. Clear mineral backbone and freshness

Compared to simpler Bourgogne Blanc, this is more structured and Meursault-like in texture.

Finish

1. Medium to long
2. Clean citrus and mineral drive
3. Light nutty, slightly buttery fade
4. Balanced acidity keeps it fresh and food-friendly

Style and Character

This wine sits in the “overachieving Bourgogne Blanc” category, meaning:

1. More complexity than entry-level Burgundy
2. Less power than Meursault or Puligny-Montrachet
3. Focus on balance, texture, and terroir expression

It’s often described as “almost village-level Burgundy in disguise” due to its vineyard location.

Food Pairing

Excellent with classic white Burgundy pairings:

1. Roast chicken or poultry in cream sauce
2. Shellfish (scallops, prawns, lobster)
3. White fish with butter or herbs
4. Soft cheeses (Brie, Comté)

Overall Impression

Xavier Monnot Les Grandes Coutures Blanc is a serious, terroir-driven Chardonnay that overperforms its Bourgogne classification. It combines:

1. Meursault-adjacent richness
2. Controlled oak integration
3. Clean mineral tension

It’s ideal if you want white Burgundy character without paying Premier Cru prices.