1996

Chevalier-Montrachet

(EX ESTATE IN 2019) OWC
Chevalier-Montrachet , Grand Cru

Domaine Leflaive

Description

1996 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru, Domaine Leflaive

96 points Allen Meadows - Burghound:
Unusually after 10 years, there is actually very little separation in freshness between the magnum and the 750 ml version and as such, I repeat the note from that format here: An absolutely stunningly elegant nose soars from the glass offering almost unbelievably good delineation and nuanced white flower fruit and subtle petrol notes with detailed, pure and racy middle weight complex flavors underpinned by intense minerality and superb length. This is still youthful though it is so fine and pure that it's still a joy to drink now. In short, this is reference standard stuff. 

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
The 1996 Chevalier-Montrachet displays massive ripeness in its fresh marzipan and honeysuckle aromatics. Flavors of silica, grilled nuts, sun-baked stones, straw, hops, and limes can be found in this hyper-focused wine. Its medium-to-full body is magnificently balanced and precise, yet broad, thick, and rich. This is a fabulously elegant offering that combines brawny power with elegance and class. It should reach its peak in 2006, yet will easily hold through 2015 given proper cellaring. Bravo!