Winemaker Caroline Lestimé is a remarkable talent. For over thirty years she has steered her family’s prestigious winery Domaine Jean-Noël Gagnard to new heights. She strikes a delicate balance between tradition and innovation, converting to organic viticulture a decade ago, but continuing to produce rich, classic cuvées from Chassagne-Montrachet.
Much of the Côte de Beaune has experienced devastating spring frosts over the last six years, with some growers losing 75% of their crop before the summer even begins. Caroline has combated these losses by establishing a small “negociant” business, buying grapes from other growers and vinifying the wine herself.
We always knew she was a great winemaker, but these two cuvées really show off her skill in the cellar.
We’re excited to introduce our first wine from the Maison Caroline Lestimé — a village-level Chassagne-Montrachet from “Champ Derrière.” From a small plot at the edge of the village, Caroline has produced an excellent Chassagne cuvée — it’s sophisticated and smooth, with admirable freshness given the warm year.
The nose is dry and serious, with notes of white pepper, pear, white tea and coconut. The mouth is similarly dry, with excellent thickness and a savory, saline finish. It’s a sophisticated cuvée, made by a masterful winemaker. Serve it with a fine dish, like Blanquette de Veau.
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Lestimé Chassagne-Montrachet
“Champ Derrière” 2018
bottle price: $85
FREE EAST COAST SHIPPING ON ANY 12 BOTTLES