2022 Domaine Henri Germain Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot Les Fairendes

Les Fairendes is one of the real jewels of Morgeot—an upper-slope site on lean, white soils just beneath Les Caillerets and this bottling from Jean-François Germain is anything but your typical broad-stroked Morgeot. It’s a wine of precision and mineral cut, far more Caillerets in feel than the richer, more muscular style many associate with the name.

For years, Germain bottled this without the lieu-dit on the label, but it’s now front and centre thanks, in part, to some gentle arm-twisting from importers and friends. And rightly so. The wine deserves to be known for where it comes from.

The 2022 is taut and deeply chalky, full of drive and definition. There’s power, yes, but it’s tightly coiled rather than showy. A standout Chassagne for those who lean toward structure and energy over opulence.

Quantities are minuscule, and it won’t be around for long.

91-93 points
"Terrific... aromas of pear, orange zest, white flowers and vanilla pod... glossy and enveloping... racy acids and a penetrating finish."
- William Kelley (The Wine Advocate)

90-92 points
"Wonderful bouquet with so much harmony... hints of hazelnut, roasted almonds and stem ginger... well-balanced with a creamy texture and sharp line of acidity... superb Chassagne."
- Neal Martin (Vinous)