LUCIEN BELLAND
BURGUNDY, FRANCE 2022
Why Buy: From Sophie and Vincent Morey, the power couple behind the beloved Burgundy label Lucien Belland, come a pair of elegantly effortless and value-friendly releases from the 2022 vintage that Jasper Morris called “amazingly consistent,” and that rank, we think, among the Morey’s best in recent years, including a stunning Montrachet from their old-vine vineyard ‘Les Embrazées,’ one of the premier holdings within that vaunted appellation). Varietally correct, judiciously-oaked, and terroir-driven to their core, they put the couple's signature traits — a captivating minerality, a bright acidity, and a lush texture — on vibrant and electric display. If you’re in love with wines that are both intellectually stimulating and sensually satisfying, folks, then look no further than these two beauties.
Our Tasting Notes: The Santenay La Cassiere 2022 opens brilliantly, vibrantly, with a bouquet that calls forth the image of a sun-drenched orchard. On the palate, it reveals a refined blend of ripe stone fruits and citrus, with a subtle vein of minerality running through it. The finish is crisp and lingering, with an elegance that feels eternal. The Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru les Embrazees 2022 is akin to a symphony, with so many different, complex lines all brought into airtight harmony. The vivid aromatics (of, principally, white flowers and crushed stones) prime you wonderfully for the deep, full palate, which delivers the perfect balance of rich texture, vibrant acidity, and a distinctive mineral core. The finish is long and contemplative, compelling you to keep sipping long into the night.
The Specs: Both wines are made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, hand-harvested and carefully sorted. Fermentation occurs in oak barrels, with a prudent use of new oak to preserve the wine's inherent character. The Santenay La Cassiere sees about 20% new oak, while the Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru les Embrazees benefits from 30% new oak. Both wines undergo batonnage (lees stirring) to enhance complexity and texture.
The Story: In the heart of Burgundy, where tradition and innovation dance a delicate minuet, Vincent and Sophie Morey have emerged as the “it” couple of winemaking. Their story is one of passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to terroir. Vincent's journey began in Saint-Émilion before he returned to his family estate in Chassagne-Montrachet in 1986. That same year, Sophie was completing her first vintage at Domaine Ménager-Belland in Santenay. Their paths, like perfectly aligned vines, were destined to intertwine. Two decades later, in 2006, the Moreys established their own estate. Success wasn't just quick; it was meteoric. Their philosophy — that great wine begins in the vineyard — has become their signature. No detail in viticulture is too small to escape their attention, an approach reminiscent of the meticulous craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers. The 'Les Embrazées' vineyard, revitalized by Albert Morey in the 1950s, has become one of their crown jewels. Located near the Baudines Premier Cru and the border of Santenay, its vines, planted between 1962 and 2000, draw character from stony, shallow soils. This terroir imparts a distinctive minerality that has become a hallmark of their wines.
What to Pair Them With: The Santenay La Cassiere 2022 is the ultimate companion for a classic coq au vin blanc or a creamy mushroom risotto. For the Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru les Embrazees 2022, think of that classic tapa, gambas al ajillo (shrimp with garlic), or a rich, buttery Dover sole.
Fun Fact: The 'Les Embrazées' vineyard name is thought to derive from the Old French word "embraser," meaning to set on fire. This could refer to the vineyard's sun-exposed position, which contributes to the wine's exceptional ripeness and complexity.
Our Guarantee: As always, we only buy and source directly from the estate, to ensure that your bottles arrive with pristine provenance. Order yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec. 21st - Mar. 20th, 2025). With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NY, or TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Thursday, August 29th, 2024.
